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Fulfilling thus an equal fate;

Since Pollux, scorning to remain,

For ever with the heavenly train,

Sharing his much-loved Castor's state,

Redeem'd his life in battle slain.

Him for his lost herds furious made,

Idas transfix'd with deadly stroke,

Aim'd by his spear of brazen head,

Whom, seated on a trunk of oak,

He from Taïgetus survey'd, whose ken

In lynx-eyed sharpness conquer'd mortal men.

Then straight, devising deeds of might,

Approach'd with rapid step and light

The sons of Aphareus, whom heaven's high sire

Chastised with hands that sent afflictions dire;

For Leda's offspring swift in flight pursued,

While near their father's tomb the brothers stood;

And, snatching thence a polish'd stone

With Pluto's effigy impress'd,

They aim'd the massy fragment, thrown

With force that stirr'd not Pollux' breast,