Page:Virgil's Pastorals, Georgics and Aeneis - Dryden (1709) - volume 1.pdf/172

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Melibœus here gives us the Relation of a sharp Poetical Contest between Thyrsis and Corydon; at which he himself and Daphnis were present; who both declar'd for Corydon.

Eneath a Holm, repair'd two jolly Swains; Their Sheep and Goats together graz'd the Plains. Both young Arcadians, both alike inspir'd To sing, and answer as the Song requir'd. Daphnis, as Umpire, took the middle Seat; And Fortune thether led my weary Feet. For while I fenc'd my Myrtles from the Cold, The Father of my Flock had wander'd from the Fold. Of Daphnis I enquir'd; he, smiling, said, Dismiss your Fear, and pointed where he fed. And, if no greater Cares disturb your Mind, Sit here with us, in covert of the Wind.