Page:Rape of Prosperine - Claudian (1854).djvu/13



who first taught his new-launch'd vessel's keel,
 * Urged by unpractised oars, the waves to part,

Or varying winds' impulsive power to feel,
 * A way, denied by nature, won by art.

His early trials were on calmest tides,
 * Nor left he far the friendly shore behind;

Next in broad bays from cape to cape he glides,
 * And spreads light canvass to a gentle wind.

Till bold at last by long experience grown,
 * Weak fear discarded, on his course he sails,

Dares the great deep, consults the stars alone,
 * And braves Ægean and Ionian gales.