Thus too when flames the orb of day
The anxious eye in vain would soar
Along the desert air,
Intently gazing to explore10
Another star whose lustre fair
Shines with a warmer ray.
And we will sing in loftiest strain
The contest of Olympia's plain;
Whence, Saturn's mighty son to praise,15
Poets the hymn of triumph raise,
To Hiero's festal dome who bend their way. 17
The monarch whose supreme command
In Sicily's prolific land
The righteous sceptre sways,20
Culling the pride of every flower
That blooms in Virtue's hallow'd bower;
A wreath of highest praise.
While music adds a brighter gem
To gild the regal diadem,25
When poets' sportive songs around
His hospitable board resound. 26
Then from its lofty station freed
Quickly seize the Dorian lyre,
If Pisa or the victor steed,30
Ne'er doom'd beneath the scourge to bleed
The mind with sweetest cares inspire.
When by Alpheus urged, his flight
Exalts his lord with conquering might,
In Syracuse who holds his reign,35
And loves the generous horse to train. 36
Such too his fame and lustre high
