Whose step secure proclaims her nation made
By thy brave arm from war's dire tumults free.
As fame reports, thus by the gods' behest,
Whirl'd on his rapid wheel Ixion cries—
"Mortals, bear this upon your minds impress'd— 40
Requite their love from whom your blessings rise."
This truth he from experience drew,
Dwelling with heaven's Saturnian train,
His raptured soul unable grew
Such mighty transport to sustain; 45
When raging with unhallow'd flame
His wild imagination strove
To ravish the celestial dame
Who shares the glorious couch of Jove.
The deed, with peril fraught, he tried, 50
By fearless insolence impell'd;
But quickly his aspiring pride
Avenging retribution quell'd.
These crimes with double weight pursued
The sinning hero to his doom, 55
Hands first in kindred blood imbrued,
A father hurried to the tomb. [1] 59
Next his endeavour, rash and vain,
The partner of Jove's bed to gain.
Let this instruct ambitious man 60
The measure of his might to scan;
Since but disgrace and endless wo
From unallow'd embraces flow.
The fool who grasp'd at heavenly charms
Fill'd with a cloud his cheated arms; 65
Whose form became the stately mien
That marks the bright Saturnian queen.
The hands of Jove this dire deceit
