Page:Tragedies of Seneca (1907) Miller.djvu/164

146 Alcides stroked the monster's massive necks, And bound him with an adamantine chain. The watchful guardian of the dusky world Forgot his wonted fierceness, and his ears Drooped timidly. He let himself be led, Confessed his master, and, with muzzle low, Submissively he went, his snaky tail Beating his sides the while. But when he came To Taenarus, and in his eyes there smote The gleam of unknown light, though strongly bound, His courage he regained and madly shook His mighty chains. Even his conqueror Was backward borne and forced to yield his stand. Then even my aid did the hero seek; And with united strength we dragged the dog, Still mad with rage, attempting fruitless war, Into the upper world. But when he saw The gleaming spaces of the shining sky, The light of day, thick darkness blinded him; He turned his gaze to earth, and closed his eyes, Expelled the hated light, looked backward, sought With all his necks the sheltering earth; and last, He hid his head within Alcides' shade. But see, a mighty throng with shouts of joy Comes yonder, wearing laurel on their brows, Who chant the well-earned praise of Hercules.

Chorus: Eurystheus, brought untimely forth, Had bidden Hercules to pierce The depths of earth. This task alone Of all his labors yet remained— To rob the dusky king of hell. He dared to enter that dark way Which to the distant manes leads, Dismal, with gloomy forests set, Yet crowded with the thronging souls. As when the eager people haste Throughout the city to behold The play in some new theater;