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Rh

To think how large the debt became.

But ample interest now shall close

The sharp reproach of envious foes,

And all the guilty past atone.

Now whelm'd beneath the flowing tide,

Where is the pebble seen to glide?

And to confound the slanderous tongue,

How shall the friendly strain be sung?

For Truth her Locrians' favour'd land,

Refresh'd by Zephyr's breath, defends:

Calliope her guardian hand

O'er them with brazen Mars extends.

E'en Hercules' superior might

Fainted in the Cycnean fight.

And as Patroclus, safe from harm,

Bowed grateful to Achilles' arm,

So should Agesidamus pay

His thanks to Ilas in the fray.

Who gave him on Olympia's plain

The wrestler's chaplet to obtain.

For by the favouring god inspired,

To glorious deeds the breast is fired,

Where emulation points the way.

But few to eminence can rise,

And without labour seize the prize,