XI.
FOR ARISTAGORAS OF TENEDOS,
ON HIS ELECTION TO THE PRESIDENCY OF THE SENATE.
This ode again was written neither for a Nemean nor for any other athletic victory, but for the εἰσιτήρια or initiatory ceremonies at the election of a new πρύτανις of Tenedos. The Prytanis would seem to have been a kind of President of the Senate. The date is unknown.
Daughter of Rhea, who hast in thy keeping the city halls[1], O Hestia! sister of highest Zeus and of Hera sharer of his throne, with good-will welcome Aristagoras to thy sanctuary, with goodwill also his fellows[2] who draw nigh to thy glorious sceptre, for they in paying honour unto thee keep Tenedos in her place erect, by drink-offerings glorifying thee many times before the other gods, and many times by the savour of burnt sacrifice; and the sound of their lutes is loud, and of their songs: and at their tables never-failing are celebrated the rites of Zeus, the stranger's friend.
So with fair fame and unvexed heart may Aristagoras fulfil his twelve-month term.
Blessed among men I court[errata 1] his father Arkesilas, and himself for his splendid body and his heritage of a dauntless heart.
But if any man shall possess wealth, and withal surpass his
