Odes of Horace the best of lyrick poets contayning much morallity, and sweetnesse. Selected, and translated by Sr: T:H: 1625.

ODES OF HORACE The best of Lyrick Poets , Contayning much morallity , and sweetnesse .

Selected , and Translated by Sr: T : H : 1625

Imprinted at London by A : M : for Will : Lée and are to be sold at his shoppe in Fleet : street : at the signe of the Goolden Bucke

To the Reader .

FRiendly , and generous Reader ) I present not Horace to thee , in his natiue lustre , nor Language . Take these rather ( if so thou please ) for a reflection , from that brighter body of his liuing Odes . Behold in them Moralitie touched , and Vertue heightned , with clearenesse of Spirit , and accuratenesse of Iudgement . These haue I selected amongst many , not with desire to prescribe the same choise to others , as a rule ; nor yet with any diffidence in my own election . Abundat quisque suo sensu . When in a Garden we gather a Coronet of Flowres , wee intend not the totall beautie of that faire piece of prospectiue , but particular ornament , and entermingled delight . These supply both . But many ( no doubt ) will say , Horace is by mee forsaken , his Lyrick softnesse , and emphaticall Muse maymed : That in all there is a generall defection from his genuine Harmony . Those I must tell , I haue in this Translation , rather sought his Spirit , then Numbers ; yet the Musique of Verse not neglected neither , since the English eare better heareth the Distick , and findeth that sweetnesse , and ayre in these proportions , which the Latine affecteth , and ( questionlesse ) attaineth in Saphick or Iambick measures . Some will vrge againe , why were not these Wreathes of morall , and serious Odes , for the more varietie , and generall entertainement of most , mixed with his wanton and looser straines of Poesie ? These I answer , and with it conclude . The Translatour of these , had rather teach Vertue to the modest , then discouer Vice to the dissolute . The streames of Helicon , are cleare , and Chrystalline . Drinke thou goodnesse from these purer Fountaines , whilest such take vnhappy draughts , from the troubled and muddy waters of Sensuality .

Jn Fidelissimum HORATII interpretem T. H. Equitem Auratum . ANglia nunc Musis dominatur ; Horatius Anglus Laetatur ; Lyrico victaque Roma suo est ; Talia , linguarum Dominam mirabere posse Dicere ; non magis est , haec potuisse , rudem ? Flaccus mutatur , remanet sed candor in Illo ; Plumeus , in doctas , concidit imber , aquas ; Sic tibi gent is honos , nostrae tibi debita linguae Gloria ; & Angliacae Laurea vitta Comae . F. L.

To the Translatour . WHat shal I fi●st commend ? your happy choice Of this most vsefull Poet ? or your skill , To make the Eccho equall with the voice , And trace the Lines drawne by the Authors quill ? The Latine Writers by vnlearned hands , In forraine Robes vnwillingly are drest , But thus inuited into other Lands , Are glad to change their tongue at such request . The good , which in our minds their labours breed , Layes open to their Fame a larger way . These strangers England with rich plentie feed , Which with our Countreys freedome we repay : When sitting in pure Language like a Throne , They proue as great with vs , as with their owne . Iohn Beaumont .

To his worthie Friend , Sr. T. H. Knight , vpon his Translation . WHile to thy Time the Lyrick Poet sings , And takes new graces from thy tuned strings ; Behold , whole Quires of Muses , reddy stand , To beg like fauour at thy curious hand . Who would not ioyne with them , and moue the same , That sees this One so happie in thy Name ? We whom the Romans held for dull and weake , Now teach their best of Poets how to speake . They need not lay to thee , the want of skill , Of Musick , or of Muses , hee that will , May heare them both exprest by thee , in vaines Equall , if not beyond the Roman straines . George Fortescue .

To my Noble Friend , Sir T. H. Knight . An O de in pure l●●bick feet . I Knew before thy dainty tuch , Vpon the Lordly Violl : But of thy Lyre who knew so much Before this happy triall ? So tuned is thy sacred Harpe , To make her eccho sweetly sharpe . I wote not how to praise inough Thy Musick and thy Muses : Thy Glosse so smooth , the Text so tough , Be Iudge , who both peruses . Thy choice of Odes is also chaste , No want it hath , it hath no waste . A grace it is for any Knight , A stately Steed to stable : But vnto Pegasus the light Is any comparable ? No Courser of so comly Course , Was euer as the winged Horse . That Astrophill , of Arts the life , S. Phi. Sidney . A Knight was , and a Poet : So was the Man , who tooke to wife S. Geof . Chancer . The Daughter of La-Roët . So Thou that hast reseru'd a parte , To rouze my Iohnson , and his Arte. Receiue the while my lowly Verse to waite vpon thy Muses : Who ca●not halfe thy worth reherse , My braine that height refuses . Beueath thy Meede is all my praise ; That , asks a Crowne of holy Baies . Hugh Holland .

In laudem Authoris . Oda , In quâ Versiones nonnullae ab eodem factae praenotantur . QValis Sonoro voluitur alueo Veruis Hydaspes imbribus intumens , Ripaeque debellator vndas Per teneras rapit amnis herbas . Horatiano talis ab aequore Linguae decorus flumine patriae Manas , & inspiras amorem Cordibus , imperio Camoe●ae . Scu cantu auit is Regibus editum Moecenas Ataui● &c. Iam satis terris , &c. H●roa promis : seu violentiùs Vndas retorquentem minacis Tibridos in dominam Orbis vrbem Cantas Etrusci littoris aggerem : Vitae ipse purus seu canis integ●um ; Integer vit● , &c. Quis desiderio , &c. Dianam tenerae , &c. O Diua gratum , &c. Raptumque non deduci ab Orco Quinctilium lacrymis perurges . Per te Dianam dicere Virgines Nouere . Diuam , quae regit Antium , Eheu ! quid vrges in Britannos Caesareis comitem ire turmis ? Nunc quaeris auro quis color abdito . Nullus argento , &c. Aequam memento , &c. Non semper imbres , &c. Beatus ilbe , qul , &c. Exegi monumentum , &c. Nunc mentis ornas aequanimae fidem . Nunc Mystis extincti calores Picrijs moderaris vndis . Tandem beato ruris in otio Laudas agentes . His tibi sacula Post mille duraturum , & vltra Carminibus monum●ntum adornas . G. D.

V. Cl. T. H. Equiti Aurato , Suo . ANglica Romani iam prodit Musa leporis Aemula , nec caeptis excidit illa suis . Quàm sibi Narcisso similis Narcissus in vndis , Tam similis nostras Flacce Poeta tibi . Quàm similis linguae rediuiuis vocibus Echo Permeat aethereas , Nympha canora , plagas , Tam similis Lyricae respondet nostra Camoenae , Romanumque melos Anglica plectra mouent . Romanas tenuit Romanus Horatius aures , Nunc Anglas Anglus non tenet ille minùs . Nam quod dulce sonat Romanis Appula Musa . Hoc resonas Anglis Cantia Musa tuis . I. CHAPPERLINVS .

ODES OF HORACE .

The First Booke .

Ode . I. To MAECENAS .

All things please not all men . HORACE most especially affecteth the name of a Lyrick Poet.

Maecenas atavis . MAecenas sprung from Grandsire Kings descent , O , my defence , and sweetest ornament . There are , who in their Chariots speedy flight , To rayse Olimpique dust , doe take delight : And hauing with chass'd wheeles , the goale declin'd , For Conquest 's meed , haue stile of gods assign'd . This man , if wauering Citizens contend , His worth , with threefold hohours to commend : That other , if he in his Garnier stores , What euer hath beene swept from Lybian flores , From painefull Tillage , and the Countreys loue , The wealth of Attalus can neuer moue , That he a Marriner in feare of losse , With Cyprian Barke Myrtōan Seas should crosse . When Southwest windes , Icarian waues doe raise , The Merchant rest , & Countrey graunge doth praise ; Straight his torne Vessell , he repayres againe , The force of want vnable to sustaine . Some others vse , old Massique Wines to ply , Nor from the day , some part to take deny ; Now , seeking vnder Arbutt's shade to cling , Now neere the soft head of some gentle Spring . In Tents , and Trumpets Eccho some delight , Mixt with the Flute , and Warres that Mothers fright In Fields the Hunter on the coldest day , Forgetfull of his tender Wife , doth stay : Whither his faithfull doggs , haue view'd the Hinde , Or , Marsyan Bore his round netts haue vntwin'd . Me , Iuy the reward , for Learned browes . A place , among supernall gods allowes Light qui●es of Wood Nymphes , that with Satyres bide , And shady groues from Vulgar me diuide : So that my Pipe Eu●erpe not restraine , Nor Polyhimne to tune my Lute refraine . But if you me , 'mongst Lyricks will account , My raysed Creast aboue the Starres shall mount .

Ode II. To AVGVSTVS CAESAR .

Many stormes are powred vpon the People of Rome in reuenge of Iulius Caesar slaine . The onely hope of the Empire is placed in the safetie of Augustus .

Iam satis terris . Ioue , now on Earth , sufficient , Of Snow , and direfull Hayle hath sent ; Who shaking Towers , with fiery hand , Affrighted made the Citie stand : He Nations scarr'd , left Pirrah's Raigne New Monsters should produce againe ; As earst when Pro●eus draue his Flock , To feed on Cliffe of steepy Rock , Then to the Elme's Tope Fishes claue , Which Turtles vs'd for seat to haue And Does , whom sodaine frights disease , Swam boldly ouer swelling Seas . Our eyes haue yealow Tybers Flood Beheld , by Tyrrhen Shores withstood With violence ; run downe to beate , The Tombes of Kings , and Vesta's seat . While Ilia much to him complaines , He vowes reuenge : Though Ioue disdaines , His wandring , and vxorious waue , Vpon the Citie bancke , should raue . Succeeding Youth , through Parents crimes , Impayr'd , shall heare that passed times , Haue sharp'ned swords ; shall heare of bralls , Wherewith the Persian better falls . To which god , shall we Vowes assigne , Now , that our State affaires decline ? What prayer shall holy Virgin Saints , To Vèsta yeeld , made dease to plaints ? To whom shall Ioue , the power dispense , Of expiating Sinnes offence ? ( Diuining Phebus ) come we pray , Whose shoulders white the Clouds array . Or , if thou please ( smoth Venus ) hy About whom Sport and Pleasures flye . Or founder Mars , if Stocke , or Kinne , Thou Loue , which haue neglected bene . O , thou that cloyed art with fight , Whom clamour , and smoth Helmes delight : And Mauritanian's visage bold , When his sterne Fo , he doth behold . Or , mayst thou ( gentle Maia's Sonne ) With winged speed be hither wonne . Augustus figure , chaung'd in thee , Caesar's reuengefull friend to be . Oh , mayst thou ( late ) to heauen retyre ; Be present long , to Rome's desire : Nor may the speedy blast of Time , Take thee offended with our Crime . Heere Triumphs seeke , and lasting fame , Instil'd with Prince , and Fathers name ; Nor suffer Caesar ( thou our Guide ) The Medians vnreueng'd to ride .

Ode XXII . To ARISTIVS .

Integrity of life is euery where safe , which he proueth , by his owne example .

Integer Vitae . Fvscus ) the man whose life 's entire , And free from sinne , needs not desire ; The Bow , nor Dart from Moore to borow , Nor from full Quiuer poys'ned Arow : Whither o're Libya's partched Sands , Or Caucasus , that houselesse stands , He takes his iourney ; or those places , By which the fam'd Hydaspes traces . For I , while , in the Sabine Groue , My Lalage doe chaunting roue , From me not marking limits dew , A Wolfe ( though I vnarmed ) slew . A Monster such , as all exceeds , Which in large woods fierce Daunia feeds : Or those , which Iuba's Kingdome hath , The Desert nourse of Lyons wroth . Place me in coldest Champaines , where , No Sommer warmth , the Trees doth cheere : Let me in that dull Climat rest , Which Cloudes , and sullen Ioue infest : Yea place me vnderneath the Carre Of too-neere Phebus : seated farre From dwellings . Lalage , I 'le loue , Whose smiles , whose words so sweetly moue .

Ode XXIV . To VIRGILL .

Who immoderatly bemoned the death of Quintilius .

Quis desiderio sit . MElpomene ) on whom great Iupiter Did shrillest voice to tunefull Harpe conferre : Declare in mournefull Notes ; what shame , or let Should on the loue of such a friend beset . Shall then Quintilius sleepe eternally ? An equall vnto whom , pure Modestie And Iustice Sister , Faith sincere and plaine , And naked Veritie , shall neuer gaine ? Of many worthy men bemoan'd he fell : But ( Virgill ) no man's griefe can thine excell . Thou ( louing ) dost ( alas ) the gods in vaine Quintil us , not so lent thee , aske againe . What if more sweet , then Thracian Orphens wyre , You Trees perswade , to hearken to your Lyre ; Yet can you not , returne of Life command , To shaddow vaine ; which once with dreadfull wand , God Mercury , vnwilling Fate t' vnlocke , Hath forc'd to dwell among the Stygian flocke . T is hard I grant . " But Patience makes that light , Which to correct , or chaunge , exceeds our might .

Ode XXVIII .

Architas , a Philosopher and Geometrician is presented , answering to a certaine Marriner , that all men must dye , and entreating him , that hee would not suffer his body to lie on the shore vnburied .

Te Maris , & Terrae . THee , who the Sea , Earth , Sands , that none can tell To bound with measure , knew'st ( Architas ) well . The poore gift of a little dust confiries , And neere vnto the Matine shore enshrines : Nor could it any helpe , or profit bee , Death being ready still to call for thee ; Those ay'rie mansions to enquire from hence , And search in mind the Heau'ns circumference . The Syre of Pelops , who with Gods did feast , And aged Tython , shrunke at Deaths arrest : And Minos , to Ioues Councells call'd , was slaine , And Panthois dyed , let out of Hell againe , Though he with Shield affixed , prouing well That his first Birth in Troian ages fell , Affirm'd , that death nought kill'd , but nerues , & skin : ( No man in Natures power was better seene : ) But wee into one selfe same night doe fall , And must the paths of Death tread once for all . The Furies , some to games of Mars apply The greedy Sayler , drencht in Seas doth lie . In death both young and old by heapes do ioyne ; Nor any head escapes sad Proserpine . Yea , the South-wind , crooked Orions mate , Or'e whelm'd me in Illyrian waues of late : But bee thou pleased ( gentle Marriner , ) MY bones , and head , in loose sand to interre . Which done ( so thou be safe ) may th' Easterne wind , That moues Hesperian billowes be assign'd , To bluster lowdly in Venusium woods : And may on eu'ry side , thy traffick'd goods , In plentie flow to thee , from Ioue's iust hand , Aud Neptune , who Tarentum doth command : But if to frustrate me thou bee not nice , Which may thy guiltlesse issue preiudice ; I wish due punishment , and proud neglect , May on thy Funerall Obscquies reflect : Nor may my Prayers be powred forth in vaine , Nor vowes haue strength to set thee free againe . Yet if thou hast , no longer stay I craue , Then , thrice the dust be throwne vpon my graue .

Ode XXXI . To APOLLO .

He desireth not riches of Apollo , but that hee may haue a sound mind in a healthy bodie .

Quid dedicatum poscit . WHat doth thy Poet aske Phaebus diuine ? ) What craues he , when he powres thee bowls of wine ? Not the rich corne of fat Sardinia , Nor gratefull flockes of burnt Calabria , Nor Gold , nor Indian Iuory ; nor the grounds , Which silent Lyris , with soft streame arrounds : Let those whom Fortune so much store assignes , Dresse with Calenian hooke , their fertile Vines : Let the rich Merchant to the Gods so deare , ( For so I tearme him right , who euery yeare Three , or foure times , visits th' Atlantique Seas , From shipwracke free : ) Let him his palate please , And drinke in gilt bowles , wines of highest price , Bought with the sale of Syrian Marchandise . Loose Mallowes , Succory , and Oliue plant Serue me for food . O ( great Apollo ) grant , To me in health , and free from lifes annoy , Things natiue , and soone gotten to enioy ; And with a mind compos'd old age attaine , Not lothsome , nor depriu'd of Lyrick straine .

Ode XXXIV . To HIMSELFE .

Who repenteth , that hauing followed the Epicurean Sect , he therby hath negligently honored the gods .

Parcus Deorum cultor . I , Of the gods a tardie worshipper , Whilst ( skill'd ) in frantike wisedome I doe erre , Now backward forced am my sayles to raise , And to seeke out againe forsaken wayes . For Iupiter , who light to day inspires , Diuiding sable clouds , with shining fires , Hath through the cleare skie oft ordain'd his drift , With thunder breathing horse and chariot swift , Wherewith d●ll earth , and wandring riuers quake , The Stygian Fenne , and horrid Seat doth shake Of hatefull Taenarus , and Atlas bounds . " God , in exchange , the high with low confounds : " Hee abiect basenesse on the highest flings , " And casteth lustre on obscured things . Hence restlesse Fortune , height from one man takes , With shrillest noyse , and great another makes .

Ode XXXV . To FORTVNE .

Hee beseecheth her , that shee would preserue Caesar going into Brittany .

O diua gratum . O Goddesse , which beloued Antium swayes , Still ready with thy powerfull arme to raise , Men from the low degree of wretched thralls , Or turne proud triumphs into funeralls . The poore , and rustick Clowne , with humble plea Sollicites thee : Thee Lady of the Sea , Hee lowdly inuocates ; who e're doth sweepe In Asian vessell the Carpathian deepe . The Dacian rough , the wandring Scythian , Cities , and Kingdomes ; The fierce Latian ; Thee Mothers of Barbarian Kings doe feare , And Tyrants , which bright purple garments weare . Let not a standing pillar bee or'ethrowne With thy offended foot ; nor bee it knowne , That people apt for armes , yet now at rest , Take armes againe , and Empires peace infest . Thee sharpe Necessitie , doth still fore-goe , Holding in brazen hand , as pledge of woe , Tormenting beames , and racks : and more to dant , Sharpe hookes , and molten lead doe neuer want . Thee Hope , and simple Faith in white attire , Doth honour , and thy company desire , How e're another habit thou dost take , And made a foe , great houses thou forsake . But the false multitude , and periur'd whore Doth backe retire ; yea friends when vessells store , Is to the dregges drunke vp ; Away they flie , Shunning the yoke of mutuall pouertie . Preserue thou Caesar safe , wee thee implore , Bound to the world's remotest Brittan shore , And the late raysed troupes of youth most able , To Easterne parts , and red Sea formidable . We at our scarres doe blush , Sinne , Brothers fall . ( Vile Age ) what mischefes doe we shun at all ? What youth , his hand , for feare of gods containes ? Or who himselfe from Altars spoyle restraines ? Ah wouldst thou now our blunted swords new frame Th' Arabians , and the Massagetes to tame .

The end of the first Booke .

ODES OF HORACE .

The Second Booke .

Ode . II. To C. SALVSTIVS CRISPVS .

Hee prayseth Proculeius for liberalitie towards his brothers . Onely contempt of money maketh a man happie .

Nullus Argento color . NO colour is in Golden vaine , ( Oh Salust , enemy of gaine ) Hidden within a greedie Mine , Vnlesse with temp'rate vse it shine . Neuer shall Proculeius die , 'Mongst Brothers mark'd for pietie : Suruiuing Fame with daring flight , Shall yeeld his Name eternall right . In larger circuit thou dost raigne , If greedy humour thou restraine . Then if thou Gades to Lybia ioyne , Or both the Carthages were thine . The selfe-indulgent Dropsie growes , Nor doth the palate's thirst vnlose , Till man from vaines , the sicknesse cause , And pallid watry faintnesse drawes . Vertue , that vulgar doth oppose , Not in the ranke of happy , chose Phraat with Cyrus throne indu'de . And doth forbid the multitude False acclamations to make ; And rule , and Scepter safe partake , And Bayes to him alone apply , Who viewes huge heapes with carelesse eye .

Ode III. To DELIVS .

Prosperous , and aduerse Fortune are to be moderately borne , since one , and the selfe same condition of death , hangeth ouer euery man .

Aequam memento . IN aduerse chaunce , an equall mind retaine , As in best fortunes temp'red , free from vaine Of mirth profuse : For ( Delius ) thou must dy , Whither in sadnesse , thou doest euer ly ; Or , on Feast dayes retyr'd to grassie shade , Thou with close Falerne wine art happy made : Where the white Poplar , and the loftie Pine , Their friendly shade in mutuall branches twine : And Riuers swiftly gliding striue , apace 'Bout crooked bankes , their trembling streames to chase . Bring hither Wine , and od'rous Vnguents . Bring The daintie Rose , a faire , but fading thing . While Fortune , age , and wealth yeeld seasons fit . And the three Sisters sable loomes permit : Thou from thy house must part , & purchas'd woods , And village lau'd , with yellow Tybers floods . And thy high hoarded heaps of wealths excesse , An Heire ( perhaps ) vngratefull shall possesse . No matter t is , whither thou rich art borne , Of Argine Kings ; or low , expos'd to scorne , Sprung from poore Parents , liu'st in open fields ; Thou art Death's sacrifice , ( who neuer yeelds . ) Wee all are thither brought , 't is hee that turnes , And windes our mortall life's vncertaine Vrnes . Sooner or later each man hath his lot , And exil'd hence , embarques in Charon's Boat .

Ode IX . To VALGIVS .

That now at length hee would desist , to deplore his deceased Myste .

Non semper imbres . THe swelling cloud , not alwayes powres , On rugged fields impetuous showres . Nor Caspian Sea ( Valgius belou'd ) With tossing stormes , is euer mou'd . Nor on Armenia's bord'ring shore , The sluggish ice stands alwayes hore : Or Ga●gan groues , with North-winds riu'd , Or Ash trees are of leaues depriu'd . You still in mournfull sort complaine That death , hath dearest Myste slaine . Your loue not failes , if Vesper rise , Nor when bright Hesper , Phoebus flies . But thrice-ag'd Nestor , mourn'd not still , That death An●ilochus did kill : Nor Parents , nor sad Sisters , euer To waile young Troilus perseuer . Cease then at length , thy soft complaint ; And in our Songs , now , let vs paint , Great Caesar's Trophies , and command , And how conioyn'd to conquer'd land , The Median streame , and Nyphate strong , Doe in lesse Channells , runne along ; And Gelon's to lesse limits ty'de , In farre more aightned fields doe ride .

Ode X. To LICINIVS .

Mediocritie to bee vsed in either Fortunes .

Rectius viues Licini. YOur safer course ( Licinius ) count , Not alwayes on the Maine to mount : Not whilst you ( wisely ) stormes abhorre , Too much to trust the shelfie shore . Hee that affects the golden meane , Liues safe from Cottages vncleane , And ( sober ) doth as much despise , In Enuy breeding Courts to rise . The blustring winds more often farre , Gainst loftie Pinès , doe threaten warre : Braue Towers with greater ruine fall , And Thunders highest hills enthrall , Each Fortune , minds prepar'd doth glad , They feare in good , and hope in bad . Ioue brings in horrid Winters rage , And sodainly doth it asswage . If with thee now , it bee but ill , Thinke that it cannot bee so still . Sometimes Apollo's silent Muse , Speakes in his Harpe ; nor doth he vse , Alwayes to bend his angry Bow ; In crosses strength , and courage show . And let your sayles with prosperous wind Too much aduanced , bee declin'd .

Ode XI . To QVINTVS HIRPINVS .

Cares layd aside , let vs liue merily .

Quid bellicosus Cantaber . WHat the Cantabrian stout , or Scythian thinke , Diuided with opposed Adria's brinke , ( Quintus Hirpinus ) doe not thou enquire , Nor for life's vse , which little doth desire , Bee thou too carefull . Smooth-fac'd youth , apace Doth backward flie , and with it beautie's grace . Dry aged hoarinesse with furrowes deepe , Dispelling amorous fires , and gentle sleepe . The Summer flowers keepe not their natiue grace , Nor shines the bright Moone , with a constant face . Why dost thou tyre thy mind , subordinate Vnto the Councells of Eternall Fate ? Why vnder this high Plane , or Pine tree's shade In discomposed manner , carelesse layd , Our hoary hayre perfum'd with fragrant Rose , And odours , which Assyria doth disclose . Doe we ( annoynted ) not to drinke prepare ? Free Bacchus dissipates consuming care . But ( oh ) what Boy , Falernian wines hote rage , Will soone for me , with gliding streames asswage ? ( Ah ) who retyred Lyde will require , Hither to come . Boy with her Iuory Lyre , Bid her make haste , and haire to tie not shame , In carelesse knot , like a Laconian Dame .

Ode XIV . To POSTHVMVS .

Life is short , and Death is necessary .

Eheu fugaces Posthume . AH Posthumus , swift yeares doe passe , Nor can religious zeale ( alas ) To wrinckles , or decrepit dayes , Or Death vntamed bring delayes : Not , if thou to harsh Plutoe's shrine Each day three hundred Bulls assigne : Who Geryon , and Tytius bound , With sable Riuer , doth surround . A streame on which each man must sayle , From royall Scepter to the flayle . Wee bloody Mars decline in vaine , Or broken waues of Adrian maine : And ( needlesse ) feare in Autumne rife , The South-wind's hurtfull to our life . Wandring Cocytus Flood , with slow And heauy Current , thou must know . And Danâus infamous traine , And Sysiphus with endlesse paine . Thou House , Land , louely Wife must want , Nor of the Trees , which thou dost plant , ( Thou dead ) will any wayt on thee , But the despised Cypresse tree . Thy worthier Heire , drinkes precious wine , Which thou with hundred keies did'st shrine ; And with it the rich pauement dewes ; None such the high Priests Banquet shewes .

Ode . XV.

Against the excesse of that Age.

Iam pauca aratro . MAgnifique buildings will leaue shortly , now , Few Akers of firme land , vnto the Plough ; Now many are beheld huge Pooles to make Of much more wide extent , then Lucrine Lake . The solitary Plane , the Elme supplants , And now no sort of od'rous flowers wants , As Roses , Violets , and Venus-Mirtle , Where th' Oliue grew , to former Lords so fertile . The Lawrell now , to Phebus piercing eye , Through his thick branches passage doth denie . No such Praescript , did R●mulus exact , Nor Elders , nor rough Cato did enact . Priuate Reuenues , then , were short , and low , And each man sought to make the publike flow . Proud Galleries no priuate man , then made , Of ten foot wide , to let in Northerne shade . Nor did our Lawes , then , suffer vs disdaine , A casuall Turfe , for Pillow to retaine ; Commaunding townes to build , at publique charge , And the gods Temples , with new stone enlarge .

Ode XVI . TO GROSPHVS .

All men desire tranquilitie of mind , which can neither with Riches , nor Honours bee acquired , but onely with bridleling our Appetites .

Otium Diuos rogat . SOone as black clouds haue hid the Moones bright eye , And Pilots cannot best known Stars espy , The Marriner toss'd in Aegean Sea , Straight to the gods for rest makes humble plea. The Thracians fierce in warre doe ease require , And Quiuer-bearing Medes repose desire , Repose , which not with gemms , purple , or gold , ( Beleeue me Grosphus ) will be bought , or sold . No Wealth , nor Consulls Lictors that make way , Can from the Heart disturbed tumults fray , Nor cares which round about gilt roofes doe fly . Hee with a little liueth happily , Who hauing on his homely Table plac'd , His Fathers Cup , and Salt kept vndefac'd , So liues , that feare , nor sordid lucre keepe His waking eyes from soft , and gentle sleepe . Why doe wee ( boldly ) many things propose In ●●ort liu'd age , which Time doth quickly close ? Why lands with other Sonne enflamed change ? Who from himselfe , though far from home can range ? Strong Ships are boarded by consuming Care : Nor doth she brauest troupes of Horsemen spare : More swift shee is , then the light footed Hind , Or tempeft-raising stormes of Easterne wind . The mind in present cheerefull , hates to care For what beyond it lies ; And doth prepare To temper bitter things with laughter free : " Nothing in all respects can happy bee . Death quickly snatched braue Achilles hence , Nor did with Tython's long liu'd age dispense : And that ( perhaps ) of time I may obtaine , Which thy expecting hopes shall neuer gaine . You many fertile flocks of sheepe command , Siciliax Kine about you lowing stand . Your Mares for Chariot fit , are heard from farre , Lowdly to neigh : Nor garments wanting are , Of Purple cloth , dipp'd twice in Affrick Dy ; While a poore state , by vpright destiny , To me is giu'n ; mix'd with a slender name , Of Greekish Muse , and scorne of vulgar Fame .

Ode XVII . TO MAECENAS being sicke .

Whom hee resolueth not to sur●iue .

Cur Me querelis . WHy kill you mee with your laments ? It neither gods , nor mee contents , Macenas ( first ) should yeeld to Fate , The Grace , and Piller of my State . But if a speedier stroke of death , Rob thee ( my soules best part ) of breath ? Why stay I in the other , Sole , Not pleasing to my Selfe , nor whole ? One day shall see vs perish both : I haue not sworne an idle oath . Goe , when you please , I will not stay , But be your partner in the way . Chimaera's spirit breathing fire , Nor hundred-handed Gyas , Ire ; Shall this my fixed vow abate ; Thus Iustice hath it pleas'd , and Fate . Though Libra in his full aspect , And feared - Scorpius , direct , My Horoscope with rage infest , Or , Capricorne , that rules the West ; Our Constellations both agree In admirable sort . And thee loues radiant lustre , hath exempt , From Saturnes Beame maleuolent , And slack'd the wings of speedy death , What time the people with lowd breath , Thrice in the Theater did sound That gladsome newe● : Eu'n then a wound , By a tree's fall , my skull had broke . But Wood-god Faunus , from the stroke , Mee then did happily assist , ( Patron of each Mercurialist . ) Then pay thy vowes , thy Temple build , And I a tender Lambe will yeeld .

Ode XVIII .

Hee affirmeth himselfe content with little , while others are wholly addicted to their desires , and encrease of riches , as if they should alwayes line .

Non ebur , neque aureum . No guilded roofe , nor Iuory fret , For splendor in my house is set ; Nor beames are from Hymettia sought , To lye athwart rich Columnes , brought From Affrick ; nor an heyre vnknowne . Altalus wealth , make I mine owne . No honest Clyents wiues you see , Laconian Purples weaue for mee : A loyall heart , and gentle vaine , Of wit I haue ; which doth constraine Rome's richest men , to seeke the loue , Of mee but poore : Nor gods aboue , Doe I inuoke for larger store ; Nor of Macenas aske I more . To mee , my onely Sabine field , Sufficient happinesse doth yeeld . " One day thrust's on another fast , And new Moones to the Wane doe hast . When death ( perhaps ) is neare at hand , Thou fayrest Marbles dost command Be cut for vse , yet dost neglect Thy graue , and houses still erect , And would'st abridge , the vast Sea's shore , Which loudly doth at Baia rore : Enriched little , lesse content , With limits of the Continent . Why often pull you vp your bounds , T' enlarge the Circuit of your grounds , And greedily your list extend Beyond your neighbour straightly penn'd● Both man , and wife with sordid brood , And ancient houshold gods , that stood In quiet peace , must bee expeld ; Yet is no habitation , held , For the rich Land-lord , so assur'd , As in deepe Hell to bee immur'd . Then whither doe you further tend ? Th' indifferent Earth , an equall friend , As willingly opens her wombe , For Beggers graue , as Prince's Tombe . Gold could of Charon not obtaine , To beare Prometheus backe againe . Proud Tantalus , and all his stock , Hee , in the bands of Fate did lock . And call'd , or not call'd still is prest , To giue the labouring poore man , Rest .

The end of the second Booke .

ODES OF HORACE .

The Third Booke .

Ode I.

Life is made happy , not with Riches , but Mind's Tranquilitie .

Odi profanum vulgus . I Hate , and from mee doe exclude , The most illiterate Multitude . You knowing Spirits , fauour bring To me the Muses Priest , who sing To Boyes , and spotlesse Virgins , Verse Which none did euer yet reherse . Kings awfull , their owne Subiects sway , And Kings themselues doe loue obay : Who famous for the Gyants fall , With brow austere doth mannage all . Say one , more large in furrowes plant Trees , which another man doth want . What though one boast a nobler straine , Affected honours to attaine : One better life , and Fame pretends , Another hath more troupes of friends : With equall Law , ne're fayling death , The rich , and poore depriues of breath : Casting that name , from forth his Vrne , Which next by lot to death must turne . To him , who o're his wicked head , A drawne sword sees in twine of thread , Sicilian Feasts , with dainties grac't , Procure not Palate-pleasing tast ; No chant of Birds , nor charme of Lyre , Can to his eyes , soft sleepe inspire : Delicious Sleepe , no whit disdaines , The homely Cottages of Swaines : Nor shady bankes , nor Tempe groue , Where Zephirus doth gently roue . Hee who desires , but what 's enough , Feares not the Ocean billowes rough : Nor sterne Arcturus force , that sets , Nor rising Kid , who stormes begets : His Vines , nor ruin'd are with hayle , Nor doe his crops in Haruest faile : His fields , now blaming water-falls , Now parching Starres , now Winter-thralls . Yea Fishes feele the Seas growne straight , With Bulwarks rais'd , of wondrous waight : Heere the Surueyor , with his traine , And Lord himselfe , fill'd with disdaine ; Of his firme Land 's too narrow ring , Building materialls frequent bring : But angry threats , and restlesse Feare , Goe with their Master euery where . Black Care , in ship , with him abides , And sits behind him , when hee rides . But if , nor Phrygian Columnes , can , Nor vse of Purples brighter , than Heauens Lights , disturbed minds content , Nor Falerne Vine , nor Persian Sent. Why Pillars proud , should I erect , Or Gall'ry of new Architect ? Why should I Sabine's Countrey Grange , For much more busie wealth exchange ?

Ode II. To his FRIENDS .

Boyes are to bee enured from their tender age , to pouerty , warfare , and painfull Life .

Angustam amici . LEt able Youth , it selfe enure , By warres sharpe vse , want to endure . And mounted on his Horse , with Speare , No whit bold Parthians valour feare : Let him exposed to open ayre , Liue , and attempt , the hard'st affaire . Whom wife of Tyrant , vs'd to warre , Viewing , from hostile walls afarre ; And Mayd for marriage ripe may crie , With sighes , which from sad passion flie . Oh , that my royall Loue , vntrain'd In martiall feats , would be restrain'd , Not to fierce Combats fatall stroke , That wrathfull Lyon to prouoke , Whom bloody angers direfull rage , In thickest slaughters doth engage . " It is a sweet , and noble gaine , " In Countreys quarrell to be slaine . Death , the swift flying man pursues With ready steps : Nor doth he vse , To spare , from vnauoyded wrack , Youth 's supple hammes , or fearefull back . Vertue disdaining base neglect , Doth shine with taintlesse honours deckt : Nor takes , or leaues she honour's choyce , To please the people's ay'ry voyce . Vertue , vnlocking Heau'n to praise , Doth dauntlesse try , denied wayes . Vulgar assemblies doth despise , And leauing Earth , to Heauen flies . Yea , trusty Silence is not barr'd , To haue a merited reward . Hee , who to blab the holy Rites , Of secret Ceres Phane delights , Vnder the same roofe shall not bee , Nor in fraile Vessell sayle with mee . " Ioue oft neglected , makes the Iust " To smart with those are stayn'd with lust ; " Seldome Reuenge , with halting pace , Leaues bad fore-going men to trace .

Ode . III.

A man with vertue adorned , feareth nothing . Iuno's Oration of Troye's ouerthrow , and the end of that warre . And how the Romane Empire shall take beginning from the Troians .

Iustum & tenacem . HEe , that is iust , and of resolued mind , No voyce of Citizens to bad enclind , Nor angry brow of hastie Tyrants threat , Can shake his solid thoughts from Vertue 's seat . Not the South winde , which doth rough Adria stirr , Nor potent hand of thundring Iupiter ; Yea , should the world dissolued perish quite , The so ●aine ruines would him not affright . With this same Art , the wandring Hercules , And Pollux , did the fi'ry Turrets seaze . Twixt whom Augustus plac'd , with rosie lips Nectar , the Gods eternall liquor , sips . With this god Bacchus , high his worth did reare , By Tygers drawne , vntaught the yoke to beare . With this Art Romulus on Mars his Steeds , Leaues Acheron , and to Heau'ns glory speeds . What time the gods consulting . Iuno sayd In gratefull accents this ; Troy , Troy , betray'd , A fatall , and incestuous Iudge hath burn'd , And a strange woman vnto Ashes turn'd . Eu'n from that time , that Priams wayward Sire , Bereft the righteous gods their promis'd hire , Which Troy by mee , and Pallas once contemn'd , With Prince and people , were to flames condemn'd . Now the knowne guest , of that adult'rous Dame Which fled from Greece , no more shall merit fame ; And Priams periur'd stock , with Hector's ayd , No more shall make the warlike Greekes dismayd . The fatall warres , which our seditions fed , Are now compos'd , and angry stormes are dead . Henceforth to Mars my fury will I leaue , And Vesta's off-spring vnto grace receiue : Him I to Heau'ns bright mansions will admit , To drinke of Nectar , and with gods to sit : While the vast Sea , twixt Troy , and Rome is found , Raigne happy banish'd men on any ground : Whilst heards o're Priam's tombe , and Paris stray , And beasts preserue their young from hunters pray , Let the bright Capitoll it's glory spread , And Rome giue Lawes vnto the conquer'd Mead. Yea let her , her far-dreaded name extend , And with the Earth's remotest confines end : Where the Mid-stream , Europe from Affrick bounds , Or swelling Nilus , watreth fertile grounds . Rome abler farre , to scorne gold , yet vnfound , ( Which best is plac'd , when deepest vnder ground , ) Then to extract it thence for humane vse , Each hand things sacred foyling with abuse . What limit of the world , so e're contend , Let thither Rome , her armes victorious send . Glad to behold , where the burnt Zones doe stand , Or clowdy Poles , which showry dewes command . But to the most vnvanquish'd Romane State , On this condition I prescribe this Fate , Lest they , too pious , and indulgent yeeld , The ruin'd walls of ancient Troy to build . Yet if that Fortune by vnhappy chance , Should once againe decayed Troy aduance , I Wife , and Sister of loue , Heauens King , With armed troupes , would new destruction bring . If thrice a Brazen wall , by Phebus hand Should reared bee , it thrice by my command , The Greeks should raze , and thrice the captiue wife Her child , and husband mourne , depriu'd of life . But these things nothing fit , my sportiue Lyre ; Muse whither go'st thou ? Ah! doe not aspire , The gods discourse , thus boldly to relate , Or great things with low Layes extenuate .

Ode VI. To The ROMANS .

Of the corrupt manners of that Age.

Delicta maiorum . ( Romane ) resolue , thou shalt desertlesse tast , Sinn 's scourge , for vice of Predecessor past , Vntill thou dost againe , repaire Decayed Temples , and make fayre , The falling houses of the gods , disgrac'd , And cleanse their Images , with smoke defac'd . To think thee lesse then Gods , thy power commends ; Hence take beginnings , hither ayme thy ends . The Gods neglected , did impose On sad Hesperia many woes . Twice Pacorus , and twice Monaeses hand , Our inauspicious forces did disband : Who with a plenteous prey made glad , To little chaines new links did add . The Dacian , and the Aethiop fierce in warres , Hath almost raz'd the Citie , rent with iarres . One with his Nauy formidable , With Darts , the other better able . This Age in Vice abounding , did begin , Chast Stocks , and Nuptials to pollute with sinne : The woes which from this fountaine flow , People , and Countrey ouerthrow . The Mayd for Mariage ripe , much ioyes to learne , Ionick Daunces , and can well discerne , With art to faine , and quickly proue , The pleasures of vnlawfull loue . Straight made a wife in midst of husband's cups , Shee with young Gallants , and adulterers sups . Nor doth she care , to whom by stealth , ( Light 's out ) she yeeld loues lawlesse wealth . But ask'd , doth rise , ( her knowing husband by ) To prostitute her Marriage modestie : At Factors call , or Pilot's hyre , Of lustfull shame , a costly buyer . That youth came not , from such Forefathers straine , Who did the Sea with Punick blood distaine . By such hands , Pyrrhus did not fall . Antiochus , nor Hanniball . But in those dayes , a braue and manly race Of rustick Souldiers liued in this place , Well skill'd in Plough , and Sabine spade , And so to strict obedience made . That if sharpe mothers bad , at home returne , They on their sholders brought logs new'd to burne : Soone , as the Sun , did change the mountaines shade . And weary vnyoak'd Oxen home-ward made , Night gaue their labours free dispense , Chasing the Sun's bright Chariot hence . " What wasteth not with Times deuouring rage ? " Our Fathers life , much worse the Grandsire's age , " Sees vs more wicked , to produce " An off spring fuller of abuse .

Ode IX . To LYDIA .

A Dialogue of his passed Loues , and renewing of them againe .

This Ode , though lesse morall then the rest , I haue admitted , for Iul. Scaliger's sake , who much admireth it .

Donec gratus eram . Horace . WHilst I was pleasing in thy ey , Nor any to thy heart more nigh , Clasp'd , that white neck in amorous Ring , More bless'd I liu'd , then Persia's King . Lydia . Whilst you no other Fire embrac'd , Nor Chlōe before Lydia plac'd . I Lydia then with honour sign'd , More then the Roman Illia shin'd . Horace . Now Thracian Chlōe I obey , Skillfull , and prompt in Musick 's lay : For whom I will not feare to dy , So Fate to her the same deny . Lydia . Calais Ornithus sonne doth fire My heart with flames of like desire . For whom I twice to die , will dare So Fates , the youth suruiuing spare . Horace . But what if ancient Loue returne , And vs with mutuall passion burne ; If I shake off bright Chlôe's hope , And doores to scorned Lydia ope ? Lydia . Though hee bee brighter then a Starre , And lighter thou , then Corke by farre . More angry , then rough Adria ; I With thee would liue , with thee would die .

Ode XIV . To the ROMAN PEOPLE .

This Ode containeth the prayses of Augustus returning out of Spaine , after his Conquest ouer the Cantabrians .

Herculis ritu . AS Hercules , sometime was thought Bayes with life's hazard to haue sought ; So Caesar now , to vs restores , Our houshold gods from Spanish shores . The wife that 's with one husband pleas'd , Let her come foorth , the gods appeas'd . Octauia Caesar's Sister , hast , And Head with humble veyle embrac't , Now Mothers with your Virgins deare , And sonnes ( late ) safe return'd , appeare . Now Boyes , and you new maryed trayne Of wiues , from euill words abstaine . From mee this new made Holy-day , Black sullen cares , shall take away . Nor feare I in great Caesars raigne , By force , or tumult to bee slaine . ( Boy ) Crownes , and Vnguents now prepare , And vessell kept , since Marsian warre : If any such conceal'd hath been , By wandring Spartacus not seene . Let shrill Neaera heere bee found , With golden hayre in tresses bound . But if the Porter , make delay With churlish answere ; Hast away . White hayres doe mollifie my mind , To brawles , and quarrells earst inclin'd . This in Youths heat , I could not brooke , When Consull Plancus , Office tooke .

Ode XVI . To MAECENAS .

All things lye open to Gold , but Horace is content with his owne Fortune , whereby bee is made happy .

Inclusam Danäen . DOores strongly fenced , and a Brazen Tower , With carefull Gard of waking dogs had power Fayre Dana● in stony walls immur'd , From night-Adulterers to haue secur'd : Did not both loue and Venus then deride Acrisius , who the Mayd with feare did hide . For they the way knew free , and safe the hold , Were but the god once turned into gold . Gold abler , armed troupes to passe , then thunder , The strongest Fortresses doth rent assunder . The Argiue Angur's house , with all his State , Desire of gaine did wholly ruinate . With gifts the Macedonian did subdue , Strong Citie gates , and proud Kings ouerthrew . Sea-men are snar'd with gifts , and golden store ; " Care , growing wealth pursues with thirst of more . Then ( deare Maecenas ) well may I detest , To vaunt my selfe with eleuated crest . " How much the more , man doth himselfe deny , " So much the more , the gods will him supply . I poore in state , seeke those that nought desire , And , flying , doe from rich mens tents retire , And better liue , Lord of a slender store , Then , were I sayed to hold vpon my flore , What the Apulian painfully hath till'd , And in great wealth bee poore , and neuer fill'd . My streame of waters pure , my little Copps ; My certaine hope of happy fruitfull crops , From him his hidden in my better chance , Who Empire in rich Affrick doth aduance . Though mee Calabrian Bees , no Honey giue , Nor wines in Laestrigonian Flaggons , liue Till age make good the tast , though no man knowes That my rich fleece in fertile Gallia growes . Yet from me , crauing pouertie doth flie ; Nor should I aske you more , will you denie . I , better will with limitted desire , Pay Caesar little tributes , then aspire By greatnesse , to vnite the Phrygian plaine , To Alliatts ample state , and royall raigne . " Who much desire , want much : He richly liues " Whom God , with sparing hand sufficient giues .

Ode XXIV .

Against couetous rich men .

Intactis opulentior . ALthough you richer bee by farre , Then th' Arabs Mines vntouch'd , or Indies are : Though you with deepe pyles , land would gaine , Eu'n from the Tyrrhene , and large Pontique Maine . If , on your head sad Fate preuayles , Transfixing it with Adamantine nayles , Yet can you not your mind set free , Or life , from snares of death exempted see . The sauage Scithyans better liue , ( Who in their Carts , vnconstant dwelling driue ) And rigid Getes , whose common ground Doth in full store of Corne and Fruits abound . And loue their tillage to extend , No longer , then the yearely season 's end : So as , whilst one man weary lies , A Substitute , him with like paines supplies . The Step-dame , there , in peacefull aw , Commands her mother-wanting sonne in law : Nor wife , though rich , her husband swayes , Or , to Adult'rer spruce , her selfe betrayes . " Vertue of Parents , is great Dower , " And Chastitie restrain'd to Wedlocks power , " Fearefull of others touch ; that knowes " The breach is sinne , and Death the payment owes . Oh , hee that would quite take away All impious slaughters , and each ciuill fray : If hee the Citie 's Father , care On statues to be stil'd : Ah! let him dare , ( So shall hee future glory gaine ) Loose libertie with bridle to restraine . But vertue ( liuing ) we despise , And much admire it , taken from our eyes . But what need sad complaints bee spent , If vice be not cut off with punishment ? What profit Lawes , in vaine compos'd , Without good liues ? If neither Climes expos'd , To parched heates : Nor Northren starre , Nor snow hard crusted , can the Merchant scarre : Wife Marriners , through rough Seas flie , The greatest imputation ( Pouertie ) Bids vs doe that , or suffer this , Yet doth the painfull way of Vertue misse . Then goe wee to the Capitall , Where vulgar voyce , and troupes of friends do call : Or , in the nearest Sea bee bold , Our gemms , and precious stones , with fruitlesse gold , The root of many ills to cast . If thou wilt fully sinnes repentance tast , Let this first scope thy thoughts inspire , To raze the Elements of foule desire : And in minds tender , apt to ill , To seeke the sharpest studies to instill : Youth nobly borde , as yet vn●●ide , Feares hunting sport , and speedy horse to ride : Farre better skill'd Greeke Tops to ply , Or Dice , which ancient Romane Lawes deny : Whilst his false Syre , with cunning wi●es , His fellow-neighbour , and his guest beguiles , And all this , that hee may prepare Great heapes of riches , for his worthlesse heyre . " Thus , though vile riches grow : yet will " Somewhat to our weake state , be wanting still .

Ode XXVIII . To LYDE.

Hee perswadeth Lyde , to spend the day dedicated to Nep●●●● 〈◊〉

Festo quid potius die . WHat doe we else on Neptune's Feast ? Bee therefore ( Lyde ) ready prest , To broach Caecubian Wines , enclos'd ; And let strong wisedome bee oppos'd . Thou seest , ' its mid-time of the day , And yet , as if swi●t time did stay , A Butt , thou spar'st , was Cellar-stalld , When Bibulus was Consull call'd . With mutuall Songs , wee le Neptune please , And the greene-hayrd Neretdes . On crooked Lyre , sing thou with art , Latona , and swift Cynthia's dart : Whilst our last straine , her praise vnfolds , Who Cn●dos , and bright Cyclads holds : And Paphos with payrd Swans doth view ; Yet ( Night ) wee le pay th●e Verses due .

Ode XXIX . To MAECENAS .

Hee inviteth him to a merry Supper , laying publiques cares aside .

Tyrrhena regum . OH my Maecenas , sprung from roy I●straine , Of Tyrrhene Kings ; Behold , I doe retaine , Long since by mee reserued , to be thine , A vessell , yet vnbroach'd of milder wine ; Soft rosie flowers , for thee I will prepare , And supple Vnguents , pressed for thy haire . Then free thee from delay : Nor alwayes yeeld , To view from farre Aesulus hanging field , Moyst Tybur's Site : Nor let thy eyes abide , On hills of Telegon , the Particide . Leaue off to see , successefull Rome reioyce , In smoaky hopes , much wealth , and vulgar voyce . To great men , changes oft times gratefull are : And vnder humble roofes , neat srugall fare , Without rich hangings , or gay purple state , Doth the most busie brow to mirth dilate . Now bright Andromeda's refulgent Sire , Shewes to this vnder-world , his hidden fire : Now Procyon , and the raging Lyon swayes , Phaebus reducing drie , and parched dayes . The Shepheard tyr'd , with his faint flock doth hie , To find cook shades , or trembling current nigh , And rough Syluanus thickets : while the shore , Becalmed stands , from wind 's tumukuons rore . Meane time the good of Rome , in mind you beare , And of her much sollicitous , doe feare What Seres plot , or Bactria Cyrus state , Or , Tanais war like-dweller perpetrate . All-knowing god , with cloudy night doth close Euents of future times , and laughs at those , Who beyond reason feare : Thy present state , See then with equall mind thou moderate . All other things , like to a Riuer's source , Who in the middle Ch●nnell of his course , Now to the Tyrrhene Sea in silence strayes ; But when fierce Deluges , calme Riuers raise , Hee then in heaps rowles down with dreadfull sound Stones billow-gnawn , & trees torne from the ground . With house , and cattell borne along the flood , Frighting the hill with noyse , & neighbouring wood . Hee Master of himselfe , liues merry dayes , Who ( this day I haue liu'd ) and truely , sayes ; To morrow ( Ioue ) with black clouds heau'n embrace , Or let the Sunne shew forth his golden face . Yet notwithstanding God will not agree , That what is passed once , shall frustrate bee : Nor what the once swift-sliding houre hath wrought , Will he vnfashion'd leaue , or bring to nought . Fortune in aduerse chances , sportiue euer , And bold in scornfull pastime to perseuer , Transferreth he● vncertaine honours : Now To mee propitious , instantly to you . I praise her , while shee stayes , but if shee shake Her fleet wings , I restore what I did take : And mee with my owne vertue , doe invest , Making thin honest pouertie my guest . T is not for mee , inprayer time to wast , When wracking , Southerne ●ind hath rent the Mast , And bargaine with the gods , that the vast floods , May to their wealth , not add my Tyrian goods : When I , into such dangerous hazard fall , The Wind , and ●●ll●●● with his brother , shall Mee with a poore two-oated Vessells ayd , See , safely through Aegtian stor●es conuayd .

Ode XXX . To MELPOMENE .

Horace hath obtained eternall glory , by writing of Lyrick Verses .

Exegi Monumentum . A Monument by mee is brought to passe , Out-liuing Pyramids , or lasting brasse , The Sepulchre of Kings ; which eating raine , Nor the fierce Northren tempest can restraine : Nor Yeares ( though numberlesse : ) nor Times swift start . I will not wholly die ; my better part , Shall scape the sullen hearse : Bright Fame shall raise My memory renew'd , with future praise : While in the Capitoll the Priest ascends , With Vestalls pure , whom silence so commends . I ( though ) of humble straine will be declar'd , The first , and able most , that euer dar'd , Vnto Italian Proportion's vse , Aecolian antique Measures to reduce . Where Aufidus with wrathfull streame doth rore , Or Daunus poore in waters , reigneth o're Rough barbarous Nations . Take to thee a name , Which best ( Melpomene ) may sute thy fame . And ( willingly ) thy Poet doth request , My haire with Delphick Lawrell thou inuest .

The End of the third Booke .

ODES OF HORACE .

The Fourth Booke .

Ode III. To MELPOMENE .

Horace is borne to Poetry , by whose ayd , hee hath obtained immortall glory .

Quem tu Melpomene . ON whom ( Melpomene ) with mild aspect , Thou shalt thy fauour at his Birth reflect , Him ; Istmian Labour shall not higher reare With Wrastlers title , nor swift horses beare By Grecian Chariot drawne , for Victors mee'd In pompous triumph ; nor for warlike deed , A Captaine in the Capitoll bee made , And deck'd with Delian Bayes , who durst inuade , And breake the swelling threats of hostile Kings : But rather those soft-falling gentle Springs , Which wash fat Tybur , and Groues thickly growne , Shall make his worth in Lyrick Verse be showne . Rome Queene of Cities , doth no whit disdaine Mee for the Muses sake to entertaine Amongst the Poets , loued Quires to sit , So that I now , am lesse with Enuy bit . ( Oh thou Pierian ) which with Harpe of gold , Dost in sweet notes harmonious ayre vnfold ; ( Oh thou ) who if thou please , to Fishes mute , The Swan's delicious Song canst attribute : It wholly is a gift deriu'd from thee , That by each finger , which doth passe by me , The Romane Lyrick Harper they designe . That I doe breath , and please ( if please ) is thine .

Ode V. To AVGSTVS .

That now at length he would returne into the Citie .

Diuis orte bonis . ( CAesar . ) thou from the gods propitious sprong , Our best preseruer , stay'st away too long . Wee promise of thy quicke returne require , Made to the sacred Senate : Oh retire , ( Good Caesar ) on thy Countrey light reflect , For where thy Spring-like face doth beames eiect , More ioyfull to the people are the dayes , And better doth the Sunne , transfuse his rayes . Like as a Mother ( when the Southerne wind , Her sonne with enuious tempest hath confin'd , Beyond the billowes of Carpathian Straights More then a yeare : ) His home-returne a waights With vowes , and prayers ; And the gods implores , Her ey not stirring from the crooked shores . So strucken with their faithfull heart's desire , Thy Countrey ( Caesar ) doth thy selfe require . Behold the Oxe , safe , wandreth vp and downe ; Ceres , and bright Felicitie doe crowne , And feed the Land . The Seas are calmer fram'd For Saylers vse . Faith feareth to be blam'd . No chast house , with Adulterie's defil'd ; Custome , and Law , hath spotted sinne exil'd . For Sonnes like Syres , the Mothers we commend . " Companion punishment doth vice attend . Who feares the Parthian now , or Scythian bold ; Or Monsters , which rough Germany doth hold . Or Caesar being safe , who will regard , That fierce Iberia stands for armes prepar'd ? Each man in his owne hilles , doth close the day , And Vines about the widow-Elme display . Then frolike to his banquet hee retires , And thee a god , in second Cups admires . With many prayers , he doth his Vowes enflame , And powres full goblets out vnto thy name ; Thy Godhead seeking with his Lars to please , As Greece their Caest●r , and great Hercules . ( Good Caesar ) render long repose we pray , To glad Hesperia : This wee ( sober ) say When day first breaks : This moystned , when to rest The Sun inuites vs , wa●ing in the West .

Ode VII . To LVCIVS MANLIVS TORQVATVS .

Since Time changeth all things , let vs liue merily .

Diffugêre niues . NOw snows are quite dissolu'd , fresh grasse we see To fields return'd , and leaues to euery tree . The earth with various change each season rankes , And falling Riuers glide within their bankes . Aglaia dareth ( naked ) on the ground , With Nimphes , and her two sisters daunce a-round . The yeare vs warnes immortall things to doubt , And Hower , which circumvolues the day about . Soft Westerne winds , on Winter mildnesse bring , Soone wither'd Summer , weareth out the Spring , Then mellow Autumne , powres his fruits amaine , And instantly dull Winter turnes againe . Yet speedy Moones celestiall harmes restore To after times : when wee are gone before , Where Tullus , good Aeneas , Ancus trade , Nought are wee else ( alas ) but dust , and shade . Who is it knowes , whether the heauenly powers , Will adde to this dayes summe to morrow's howers . Your greedy heire in nothing shall haue part , Which you in life shall giue with bounteous heart . But when you once are dead , and powers diuine , To you , an equall sentence shall assigne ; Then ( oh Torquatus ) blood , nor eloquence , Nor pietie , can life againe dispense : For neither chast Hypolitus , was free By Dian set , from Hells obscuritie ; Nor were Laethean bands , by Theseus Dissolued , for his deare Pyrithōus .

Ode VIII . To MARTIVS CENSORINVS .

There is nothing which can more immortalize men , then Poets Verses .

Donarem pateras . TO friends I would giue freely ( Censorine ) Pieces of richest Plate , and Bowles for Wine , Three-footed Tables , ( valiant Greekes reward : ) Nor from my choycest gifts should you be barr'd , Were I with artfull figures richly sped , Which Parrhase drew , or Scopas pourtrayed . In colours one , in stone the other bold , A man sometimes , sometimes a God to mould . But I haue not this power : Nor doe suppose , Your wealth , or wish , wants such delights , as those . You Verses loue , for Verse we make a shift , And know what price to set on such a guift ; Not Marbles with deepe Characters engrau'd , By which to valiant Captaines life is sau'd , And spirit after death : Not speedy flight , Nor threats of Hanniball , reiected quite : Not flames of Carthage better sound his praise , Who did his name from conquer'd Affrick raise , Then Ennius Muse : Nor can reward bee wonne , If paper tell not , what was brauely done . What would become of Mars , and Illia's brood , If spitefull silence , Romulus withstood ? The strength , and grace of Poets powerfull wit , Makes Aeacus in fields Elizian sir , Snatched from Stygian floods . " Muses denie , A man deseruing praise should euer die . " Muses giue heau'n : So dauntlesse Hercules , In loues wish'd Banquets doth his palate please : Castor and Pollux bright Starre doth redeeme , Storme-beaten Vessels , which do shipwrack'd seeme . God Bacchus brow , adorn'd with verdant Vine , Doth happy end , vnto our vowes assigne .

Ode XIII . To VIRGILL .

Hee describeth the approach of the Spring , and inuiteth Virgil vnder condition to a Banquet .

Iam veris comites . SOuth winds , the Spring attending still , Now Seas doe calme , and Sayles doe fill : Now Frostes doe not make Meadowes hore , Nor Winter-Snow , swolne Riuers rore . The lucklesse Bird , her nest doth frame , Bewayling Itis , and the shame , Of Cecrops house ; and that so ill , On Kings rude lust , shee wrought her will . The Shepheards of rich Flocks rehearse , And to their Pipes chaunt rurall Verse : And seeke his God-head to appease , Whom flockes , and hills Arcadian please . These times doe thirstie Seasons send : But if ( thou Virgill ) Caesar's friend , With press'd Calenian Liquor hie , For Wine , thou shalt sweet vnguents buy , And purchase with a little Box , Wine , which Sulpitius safely locks . New hopes most powerfull to create , And bitter ca●es to dissipate . Vnto which comfort , if thou hast , Come hither with thy Vnguents fast . I 'le not ( free cost ) my cupps carrotise , As rich men in a plenteous house . Then leaue delayes , and Gaine's desire , And mindfull of blacke Funerall fire , " Short folly mixe with Councells best . " T is sweet , sometime to bee in iest .

Ode XIII . Against LYCE.

Who being olde , it become a scorne to young men .

Audiuere Lyce . THe gods haue ( Lyce ) heard my vow , My vow is heard . Th' art old , yet thou , Vaine would'st ( forsooth ) bee counted faire , And quaffe , and wanton with the ayre : And ( dru●●●e ) with trembling voyee invite Slow Cupid ; who 〈◊〉 more delight , On Chia's rosie cheekes to stay , Both young , and skill'd in Musick 's lay . For hee , delay not booking , flies From wither'd Okes ; and from thee hies , Whom rotten teeth , and wrinckled face , And head of snowy hayre , disgrace . Now cannot Coān Purple's vse , Nor brightest gemms , the Time reduce , Which once swift-winged Age hath clos'd In publique Calenders dispos'd . Where is thy beautie fled ? ( Ay mee ) Thy colour fresh , and motion free ? What hast thou of that , that entire , Which earst inspired amorous fire ? And did mee from my selfe diuert ; Next Cynaras , thou happy wert , For pleasing beautie , and sweet grace , Discou'red in a louely face . But Fates to Cynaras did owe , Short life , and Lyce like the Crowe ; They heere suruiuing longer hold , That seruent young men may behold . Not without laughter , and much scorne , A flaming torch to ashes worne .

Ode XV.

The prayses of Augustus .

Phaebus volentem . MY Muse by Phebus was rebuk'd of late , For singing warres , and vanquish'd cities fate : Like those , who in the Tyrren Ocean's rage , Doe little Sayles aduance . ( Caesar ) thy age , Affoordeth plenteous fruits , vnto the fields , And to Ioues Capitoll our Ensignes yeelds , From Parthian Pillars snatch'd , and after iarres Hath closed Ianus Temple free from warres . Confusion hath with Order rectifi'd , And wandring Libertie in fetters ty'd . Hath antique arts recall'd : By which t is knowne Hesperia's strength and Latine name hath growne . Imperiall pompe hath spred , and glory wonne , Stretcht from the rising , to the setting Sunne . While Caesar is our Guardian , ciuill warre , Nor violence , our peacefull rest , shall marre . Not anger , which swords sharpeneth , and confounds Cities , vnhappy made with mutuall wounds . Not they for thirst , that drinke in Ister deepe , Shall once refuse , the Iulian Lawes to keepe . Not Seres , faithlesse Persians , nor the Getes , Nor those , which neere to Tanais haue their seats . And wee on holy Eeues , and holy Dayes , Amongst free Cupps , to merry Bacchus prayse : With wife , and children , standing in our sight . ( First Gods inuoking with religious Rite ) Will gladly ( as our grandsires did ) rehearse , ( And tuning Lydian Pipe to various Verse , ) Heroique Captaines , Troy , Anobise●gone , And braue Aeneas , Cytherea's sonne .

The end of the fourth Booke .

CERTAINE EPODS OF HORACE

Epod I. To MAECEMAS .

Horace will wa●●● 〈◊〉 M●●ccn●● , going to the Actiack war●●● agains● M● Anthony .

I●i● lib●●nis . IN low built ●arkes , thou wilt not faile , 'Mongst loftie tow●ing Ships to s●yle ; And dost ( Macenas ) much e●cline , To make great Caesar's p●rill thi●● . What shall wee doe ? Whose life is blest , If thou surniue : If not , distrest . Shall wee ( commanded ) idle bee : Repose is toyle , if not with thee . Or shall wee vndergoe these paynes , With minds which no soft ease restraines ? Wee will ? And through the Alpes ascent , And Caucasus , where none frequent : Yea to the vtmost Westerne parts , Will follow thee , with constant hearts . You 'le aske ; How can thy labour please , Vntrayn'd in armes , and weake with ease ? " In company , Feares little seeme , Which men in absence , great esteeme . As Bird , her plumelesse young ones , left , More feares to find by Serpents rest ; Not that shee can with presence , bring Force able to resist the sting . This warrfare will I vndertake , Or any other , for thy sake . Not that my many Ploughes are found , With Oxen more , to till the ground . Or Beasts to Lucan Meads are sent , Calabrian feruors to preuent . Nor Tusculum , my Village cleare , May to Circaean walls , come neare . Thy fauour mee enough hath stoar'd , Which I , as Chremes will not ●oard Within the earth , nor euer shall Spend like a wastfull prodigall .

Epod II.

The praise of the Countrey life .

Beatus ille qui procul negotijs . HEe happy is , who farre from busie toyle , ( As elder ages ) tills the soyle With his owne Cattle , which his father left , From thralling interest bereft . Hee is not moou'd , when warlike Drumms doe beat , Nor feares the angry Ocean's threat . Hee Pleas , and Suits abhorres , and doth refuse , The grace of mightie men to vse . But either doth to tallest Poplars twine , The tender off-springs of the Vine . And cutting branches off , which vselesse were , Graft those , which better fruit may beare . Or , vieweth in some winding valley's maze , His wand'ring Heards of Cattle , graze . Or , doth press'd honey in pure vessells keepe , Or , sheare his wooll o're-burdned sheepe . But when with mellow fruit ripe Autumne crown'd , His head vpreareth from the ground . How he to tast the grafted Peare delights , And grape , that with the Purple fights . Which to Priapus , as a gift redounds , Or , old Siluanus , God of Bounds . Now vnder aged Oke , hee howers doth passe , And now reposeth on the grasse . While gentle Riuers from high bankes doe glide , And Birds their warbling notes diuide : Small streames , on purling pibbles murmure keepe , To summon soft , and easie sleepe . But when lowd loue , rough Winter sends below , In stormy showres , and chilling snow . Then hee the hardy Bore , from place to place , With Fleet-Hounds , into Toyles doth chace : Or else , the fearefull Hare , and fortaine Crane With pleasing spoyle , in grinns are ta'ne . Ah! who in thought , 'mongst such delights retaines Least sense , of loue 's disturbing paines ? But if ( in part ) a modest wife direct The house , and children deare affect . As Sabine earst , or swift Apuli●●'s dame , Parched with tawney Phebus ●la●●e , With old dry w●od , a bless'd fire make to burne , 'Gainst weary husband's wish'd returne : And folding glad some stocks in wouen grates , Dryes vp their dugges , which milke dil●●es ; And broaching new wines kept in vessells faire , An ( vnbought ) Supper doth prepare . The L●trine Oyster ( sure ) not G●i●●head bright , Nor Turbot , ye●ldeth more delight ; If Winter such , when Easterne tempests rore , Doe driue vpon our Terrhene shore . Ionick Partriges , not Affrick Quaile , Vpon my palate more preuaile , Then doth the vnctuous Oliue choycely cull'd , From fertile Branches newly pull'd : Or Sorrell that in Meadowes doth abound , And Mellowes , bodies making sound . Or Lambe , on Terminus his Feast th●t dies , Or Kidd redeem'd , from Wolfe's surprise . Amongst these dainties , what content it yeelds , To see the fed-stocks leaue the fields . To see the weary O●e with neck worne ba●e , Dregging the turned plough and share : And Hinds ( the plenteous houshold swarme ) 'Bout shining L●rs to sit , and warme . This sayd , rich Al●hins that money lends , To lead a Countrey life intends ; And in the Ides his De●●● call'd in amaine , But in the Calends lent againe .

Epod VII . To the people of ROME .

An Exetration of the ci●ill warre , raised , on the one side by B●u●● 〈◊〉 Cassius ; 〈◊〉 the other , by Octauian , M. Anthony , and Lepidu● the Roman Cons●lls .

Quo , quo scelesti . AH Tr●ytors , whither hast you ? To what end , Do your right hands , to shethed swords descend ? Is there so little yet , of Latine blood , Powr'd on the Champaine fields , or Ocean flood ? Not that the Roman should with flames abate , The Towers of Carthage , ●●●●ous of our state : Or Britton should ( vnconquered to this day ) Bee taught , 〈◊〉 chaln●● to ●●ead the Pacred way . But that ( which now ●lie Pa●●hian would de●●nd ) This Citie should bee 〈◊〉 by ciuill hand . 'Mongst Wol●●s , and Lyons neuer was this vse , But beasts , whom nature diffrent doth produce . Doth Fury blind ? Or greater power command ? Or sinne 's offence ? Oh let me vnderstand ? They silent are : Th●● 〈…〉 And feares their horror-strucken minds inuade . 'T is so : Sowre ●ates doe Rome with fury staine , And tyrannous offence of brother flame . Which on ensuing ages layd the guilt , When Remus harmlesse blood on earth was spilt .

Epod. XIII .

To his merry fri●●ds , that they should passe the W●●●er 〈◊〉

H●●rida tempestas . ROugh tempests haue the brow of heauen bent , And showres , and snowe● , cause thi●●●●●●●●●e's des●ent . Now Thracian Northwinds , Sea , and woods affray . Friends , let vs take occasion , from the day ; While strength is fresh , and vs it well becomes , Let Age be lightned , which the brow benummes . Boy , see you broach those elder wines were press'd , When Torquate first , the Consull's place possess'd . Speake not of other things . God will perchance , These to their seat , with happy change aduance . Vnguents of Persian Odours , now delight ; Cares driuing with Cylenian Harpe to flight ; As noble Chiron to Achilles sang . Vnvanquish'd Mortall , that from Thetis sprang , Thee Troy expects ; which Simois rowling Tyde , And small Scamander's colder streames diuide , Whence to returne , so Fates thy threed vndoe , Thou canst not back with thy blew Mother goe . All Sorrow there , with wine , and Song depresse , ( Sweet comforts , of deformed heauinesse . )

The end of the Epods .