THE SIXTH ISTHMIAN ODE.
TO THE SAME PHYLACIDES, AND TO HIS MATERNAL UNCLE EUTHYMENES.
ARGUMENT.
Pindar begins this ode with the praises of the victor, with which he combines the expression of his good wishes.—Digresses to the fabulous story of Telamon and his son Ajax; for whom Hercules had offered up his prayers and consulted the auguries.—Concludes with celebrating the triumphs of his relations and townsmen of the same tribe.
As at the hospitable board
With flourishing profusion stored,
We mix the second cup of lays
To Lampo's valiant offspring's praise;
In Nemea's field the first best crown 5
Received, oh Jove! we make thine own.
And now upon the Isthmian plain
To Neptune with his Nereid train
Phylacides' bright palms entwine,
Youngest of that heroic line. 10
And may the third libation flow
To him who guards Olympus' heights,
While on Ægina we bestow
Mellifluous poesy's delights. 13
For he that by expense and toil 15
Erects his virtues' heavenly pile
Beholds the much-loved glory shine,
Fair progeny of root divine:
And honour'd by th' immortal train,
E'en now his anchor casts, th' extreme of bliss to gain. 20
