That look before on the untravelled road—
And the quick sense, too quick for those she loves not,
To hearken to the guiding of the helm.
The men on board, their black limbs clothed in white,
Are plain to see. And now the other craft,
Store-ships and all, are in full view. The admiral
Is shortening sail, and, all oars out, rows hard
Under the lee of the land. This must be faced
With a fixed constancy: let not dismay
Divert your thoughts from these still watchful Gods.
I will return anon when I have gotten
Defence and counsel. Like enough a herald—
Or delegates that mean to force you hence—
Graspers at harsh reprisals—nay, but that
Can never be and ye've no cause to fear it.
Nevertheless, if human aid be slow,
Remember, here ye have a present help.
Be of good cheer then; where is he who scorns
The Gods and shall not in Time's great assize
Upon the day appointed, answer it?
Chorus.
Father, I am afraid: the ships have come
So quickly, with scant interval between.
I am possessed with dread,
Doubts and fears importune me,
Lest that my flight far-sped
No way should fortune me.
Oh, when the goal is won,
The struggle nought availeth me;
Father, I am fordone;
For fear my strength faileth me.
