THE NINTH NEMEAN ODE.
TO CHROMIUS THE ÆTNÆAN, ON HIS VICTORY IN THE CHARIOT RACE.
ARGUMENT.
Pindar invokes the muses to bring the Pythian pomp from Sicyon to the new-built city of Ætna in honour of Chromius, who has obtained a victory in these games when celebrated at the former city.—Digresses to the history of Adrastus the Argive chief, by whom they were instituted, and the fate of Amphiaraus, together with reflections arising therefrom.—Returns to his subject, and offers up prayers to Jupiter for the welfare of the Ætnæans.— Concludes the ode with the praises of Chromius, and supplications to Jupiter that he will crown the victor with future triumphs.
From Sicyon, ruled by Pytho's king,
The pomp, oh muses! we will bring
To new-built Ætna, Chromius' mansion bless'd,
Whose doors are open to the frequent guest.
But weave a dulcet epic strain—5
For when he mounts the victor car,
The mother and her offspring twain [1]
Hail the triumphant voice from far;
Whose joint-inspecting eyes survey
From Pytho's height the glorious fray. 1210
By man's consenting voice 'tis said
No act to prosperous issue brought
Should on the earth in scorn be laid.
- ↑ I. e., Latona with Apollo and Diana.
