day called to her the god of love, and said, “I have a commission for you , my son. You must descend to earth, to the palace

o the palace of a certain king,” whose name she mentioned, “and there you will see a young girl who is the king’s daughter.

I am resolved to make her miserable. Now listen to what I shall tell you , for I must employ you to afflict Psyche.” “But w

her miserable. Now listen to what I shall tell you, for I must employ you to afflict Psyche.” “But why, dear mother, said C

.” “But why, dear mother, said Cupid, interrupting his mother,” would you afflict poor Psyche. Has she despised you? Does s

rrupting his mother,” would you afflict poor Psyche. Has she despised you ? Does she not bring flowers and doves to your alt

they have declared she is hirer than I. To punish their presumption, you must do as I command you; you must first see Psyc

s hirer than I. To punish their presumption, you must do as I command you ; you must first see Psyche, and then find some ve

er than I. To punish their presumption, you must do as I command you; you must first see Psyche, and then find some very ug

ult her for her perverseness, and she will be very unhappy. At length you must make her so foolish that she will marry this

said Zephyrus to Somnus, “has charged me to come hither, and request you would have the goodness to go along with me to a

come according to the decree of the oracle to make thee my wife; but you must never see me. We must always meet under cove

never see me. We must always meet under cover of the night, and then you must never attempt to look at me. If you should f

cover of the night, and then you must never attempt to look at me. If you should forget what I now tell you, if you should

ust never attempt to look at me. If you should forget what I now tell you , if you should be very curious to see me, and sho

r attempt to look at me. If you should forget what I now tell you, if you should be very curious to see me, and should inco

ould inconsiderately look at me, a dreadful misfortune will happen to you . Remember what I tell you, obey my words, and you

at me, a dreadful misfortune will happen to you. Remember what I tell you , obey my words, and you will be happy.” Psyche li

tune will happen to you. Remember what I tell you, obey my words, and you will be happy.” Psyche listened — she felt very s

as conversing with Cupid, she said le him, “I have a favour to ask of you . My time is mostly spent in a sad and lonely way;

s be indulged with the society of my sisters, I should be grateful to you for it” This request was very reasonable. Cupid c

when Psyche ceased to speak, but after a short pause, he replied: “If you desire it, my dear Psyche, receive your sisters;

, receive your sisters; but beware of taking any advice they may give you . I have no confidence in their good will towards

ce they may give you. I have no confidence in their good will towards you . I am afraid they will injure you if they can.” S

nfidence in their good will towards you. I am afraid they will injure you if they can.” Soon after, the sisters were invite

icious, very likely he may, some night, take it into his head to kill you . You are extremely foolish to mind his injunction

ee him. Follow my advice; it is very easy to get a sight of him. When you know that he is fast asleep, take a lamp and exam

ine his features. If be should be found to be a very shocking object, you had best kill him. I will give you a dagger. When

ound to be a very shocking object, you had best kill him. I will give you a dagger. When you approach the couch where be sh

hocking object, you had best kill him. I will give you a dagger. When you approach the couch where be shall be asleep, take

couch where be shall be asleep, take this instrument in your hand; if you should find him the deformed object you suppose h

s instrument in your hand; if you should find him the deformed object you suppose him to be, you will know what to do.” Psy

nd; if you should find him the deformed object you suppose him to be, you will know what to do.” Psyche had the weakness to

Cupid flew off, Psyche heard these angry words from his lips: “I quit you , ungrateful Psyche. My mother commanded me to fin

ngrateful Psyche. My mother commanded me to find a monster, and force you to marry him; but instead of obeying her, I gave

nster, and force you to marry him; but instead of obeying her, I gave you myself! To reward my tenderness, you formed a des

t instead of obeying her, I gave you myself! To reward my tenderness, you formed a design to kill me, even before you knew

To reward my tenderness, you formed a design to kill me, even before you knew me. I go to punish your wicked sisters — you

ill me, even before you knew me. I go to punish your wicked sisters —  you I abandon.” Hearing this, Psyche, overwhelmed wit

interfere with my commands. You have been assisted in the task I gave you , but I shall assign you another, in which you may

ds. You have been assisted in the task I gave you, but I shall assign you another, in which you may find it more difficult

sted in the task I gave you, but I shall assign you another, in which you may find it more difficult to procure help.” Venu

d directly to the place of her destination. “There,” said the voice, “ you will see some cakes and some money. The cakes you

,” said the voice, “you will see some cakes and some money. The cakes you will give to a great dog called Cerberus, who wil

cakes you will give to a great dog called Cerberus, who will bark at you and bite you, when you get to the entrance of Plu

ll give to a great dog called Cerberus, who will bark at you and bite you , when you get to the entrance of Pluto’s kingdom,

a great dog called Cerberus, who will bark at you and bite you, when you get to the entrance of Pluto’s kingdom, and who w

you get to the entrance of Pluto’s kingdom, and who will be quiet if you offer him a cake. And there is a river called the

if you offer him a cake. And there is a river called the Styx, which you must cross, where you will see a boatman ready to

ke. And there is a river called the Styx, which you must cross, where you will see a boatman ready to convey you over; his

x, which you must cross, where you will see a boatman ready to convey you over; his name is Charon; give him the money, for

n hand. “Receive,” said be, fair Psyche, this mark of my favour. When you drink of this, your human nature will be exalted

t of it. It is true people once believed that there were such gods as you have been reading about. Ann. But there never we

ars after the birth of Christ. Ann. That is, they left off paganism; you told me that was the name of the old religion, fi

ferent parts of our world, doing good, unseen by men. Ann. Who think you was Jupiter? Mother. Very likely some great king

nn. Does this fable of Psyche teach any thing? Mother. Yes; it shows you that impertinent curiosity, such as Psyche’s look

ld. Ann. It is a very pretty story. Mother. I think so. Many beside you think so. The Italian painters like it very much.

eside you think so. The Italian painters like it very much. I gave it you because I thought you might see prints of it, whi

e Italian painters like it very much. I gave it you because I thought you might see prints of it, which you would better un

ch. I gave it you because I thought you might see prints of it, which you would better understand if you knew the story. Si

ught you might see prints of it, which you would better understand if you knew the story. Sir James Edward Smith, an Englis

y-four compartments. Never was a story better exhibited.” Ann. Have you any more stories like this of Psyche for me to re

e for me to read? Mother. Yes, I have many; and the next I will give you shall be one about Proserpine, who gave Psyche th

y queen.” “Hear him not,” cried Cyane; “come with me; let us away. If you believe him, you will die. Think of your mother;

im not,” cried Cyane; “come with me; let us away. If you believe him, you will die. Think of your mother; can you quit her;

us away. If you believe him, you will die. Think of your mother; can you quit her; and us, your friends; and these pleasan

ours. None hut the queen of heaven, the glorious Juno, shall outshine you . You shall sit upon my throne, and bright gems sh

ou shall sport in the fields of Elysium, and good spirits shall serve you . There, soft music, and odorous flowers, and stil

us flowers, and still waters, and green groves, shall forever delight you . Come, beautiful Proserpina, and see the kingdom

light you. Come, beautiful Proserpina, and see the kingdom over which you shall reign.” “Will you love me?” asked Proserpin

ul Proserpina, and see the kingdom over which you shall reign.” “Will you love me?” asked Proserpina, half persuaded. “I wi

.” “Will you love me?” asked Proserpina, half persuaded. “I will love you as mortal man can never love you. Come, then, my

erpina, half persuaded. “I will love you as mortal man can never love you . Come, then, my bride,” he answered, drawing her

toward him. “Depart — leave me!” she cried. “Virgins, my friends, do you forsake me?” But Pluto heeded not; nor was Proser

of her. Mother. You shall have a story of Ceres, and that will tell you how much she grieved for her daughter. Ann. Did

was possible. The change from water to ice is a sort of metamorphosis you know. Ann. Yes; from fluid to solid, from sparkl

t day she found, by a fountain side, a naiad named Arethusa. “Who are you ?” said the goddess to Arethusa, who was sitting o

rn for my guardian goddess and the wood-nymphs, my companions. I pity you ; for, like you, I am deprived of those I love.” “

ian goddess and the wood-nymphs, my companions. I pity you; for, like you , I am deprived of those I love.” “Do you know me,

nions. I pity you; for, like you, I am deprived of those I love.” “Do you know me, Arethusa?” asked the wheat-crowned godde

.” “Do you know me, Arethusa?” asked the wheat-crowned goddess. “Yes; you are she who have gained the hills and valleys whi

reared, the harvest waves, and the olive yields its fruit. The fields you have given to man were once my favourite haunts —

he dearest object I possessed myself — my dear, dear Proserpine. Have you never seen or heard of my child?” Arethusa then t

d, in the kingdom of Pluto; but if she has, she cannot be restored to you . But why do you wish to recover her? She is wedde

m of Pluto; but if she has, she cannot be restored to you. But why do you wish to recover her? She is wedded to a husband w

ysium, where the virtuous and the pure alone forever dwell. Why would you bring her back to a world, where the violent and

d admitted her. “Good woman,” said Ceres, “I am hungry and tired; can you give me any food?” “Such as it is, you are welcom

s, “I am hungry and tired; can you give me any food?” “Such as it is, you are welcome to part of our supper,” said the poor

him a look of displeasure. His mother exclaimed, “Be silent, boy; are you not ashamed. This poor woman is weary, and almost

weary, and almost famished. Surely she wants a good supper more than you .” Ceres was more offended at the poor child than

n. Ann. Does this story teach any thing? Mother. Yes; it informs you of one of the modes of satisfying hunger which Go

ery where. Ann. Is that all the story teaches? Mother. No; it shows you the hospitality of poor peasants all over the wor

gently, and that would have taught him better manners. The next story you read, will be one of a prettier transformation, t

her, and her sister. Tereus replied to this request, “I would indulge you in this matter gladly, but you know it is a long

lied to this request, “I would indulge you in this matter gladly, but you know it is a long and dangerous voyage to Athens.

, the faithful maiden whom I so tenderly love, shall be a daughter to you while I am gone. And, my dear father, I shall soo

r to you while I am gone. And, my dear father, I shall soon return to you , if it be the will of the gods.” While Philomela

erly pressed his hand, and looked lovingly in his face. “I can refuse you nothing, my own Philomela,” answered the fond old

tears. “But, my child, do not forget me. Recollect your promise, that you will not dwell long in that northern land. Let no

e love of your sister, nor the winning ways of the little Itys entice you to forget that here, by the sad Ilyssus, your age

re, by the sad Ilyssus, your aged and solitary parent weeps daily for you — weeps that you do not walk by his side, nor sit

yssus, your aged and solitary parent weeps daily for you — weeps that you do not walk by his side, nor sit with him at his

g to comfort her, “Do not weep, lovely Philomela; no harm is intended you . I must quit you now, but I will soon return. Thi

“Do not weep, lovely Philomela; no harm is intended you. I must quit you now, but I will soon return. This woman will give

ou. I must quit you now, but I will soon return. This woman will give you whatever you want. I love you, Philomela, and I w

it you now, but I will soon return. This woman will give you whatever you want. I love you, Philomela, and I will get rid o

will soon return. This woman will give you whatever you want. I love you , Philomela, and I will get rid of Progne, and you

er you want. I love you, Philomela, and I will get rid of Progne, and you shall be my queen.” Philomela, terrified and angr

nded of Tereus to set her at liberty. “Base man,” she cried, “did not you promise my father to be kind to me, and to restor

to be kind to me, and to restore me to him? Did not I trust myself to you without fear; and now do you betray me? If you do

ore me to him? Did not I trust myself to you without fear; and now do you betray me? If you do not release me; if you do no

not I trust myself to you without fear; and now do you betray me? If you do not release me; if you do not convey me to my

without fear; and now do you betray me? If you do not release me; if you do not convey me to my sister, these woods shall

Know, false wretch, they will sooner or later execute vengeance upon you for your perfidy.” Tereus was alarmed at these me

stories of the good, and not of the bad. Mother. And I like to have you read stories of good people, because good actions

what is better still, they afford good examples. Ann. May I then ask you why you ever give me stories of bad men and women

better still, they afford good examples. Ann. May I then ask you why you ever give me stories of bad men and women. Mothe

ive me stories of bad men and women. Mother. Because I wish that all you read should give you a true account of human natu

men and women. Mother. Because I wish that all you read should give you a true account of human nature and human manners.

re in the world, and there always have been good and bad people. When you read of the unworthy conduct of the bad, you hono

ood and bad people. When you read of the unworthy conduct of the bad, you honour the good more. Ann. I do not know of any

y lived. Ann. But why were they so bad then? Mother. As I have told you before, because they did not know better. Ann. H

one another? Mother. The Bible has taught us better. It teaches us, you know, not to kill or injure our fellow creatures.

fore the birth of Christ. The stories of these primitive Greeks shock you , and they are revolting accounts of uncivilized m

ews in many respects. There was good mixed with evil in them both. Do you remember the history of Joseph, in the book of Ge

wellings and to sojourn in mine. You will find indifferent cheer, but you shall be welcome;” and waving his hand for them t

aking their seats, Baucis, the mistress of the house said, “Nay; stay you a minute;” and she quickly found cushions stuffed

riends,” he said, addressing himself to Baucis and Philemon, “I thank you for your hospitality. We, for my companion is no

other than the god Mercury, sought kindness from the people all about you , and they meanly refused us shelter and protectio

Ascend to yonder mountain top, nor once look back in your flight till you reach the summit. It is my will to bring destruct

ummit. It is my will to bring destruction upon an impious people, but you shall not be involved in their punishment. Trust

ot be involved in their punishment. Trust the gods; they will deliver you .” Philemon bowed submissively, and taking a staff

d the god; “just man, excellent woman, and worthy of each other! Have you a wish in your hearts which the gods can grant in

s can grant in this world? In the next, the delights of Elysium await you . Ask what you will; whatever your modest wishes d

this world? In the next, the delights of Elysium await you. Ask what you will; whatever your modest wishes desire, Provide

will; whatever your modest wishes desire, Providence has in store for you .” They looked at each other, and withdrawing a mo

y honour share.” Conversation: Mother and Ann. Mother. How do you like Baucis and Philemon? Ann. Very much. But I

atever makes us merely comfortable, and keeps us alive. Ann. What do you suppose is the fact contained in this fable? Mot

read in the Bible. Mother. Of what Scripture stories does it remind you ? Ann. The flight of Baucis and Philemon, and the

t reminded me of the visit paid by the angels to Abraham. Mother. Do you remember the passage? Ann. Yes, the very words,

the tent-door, and invited them to enter, “Let a little water, I pray you , be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yoursel

be found in the 18th chapter of Genesis. Mother. Many of the fables you read resemble passages of Scripture. Do you know

other. Many of the fables you read resemble passages of Scripture. Do you know why it was accounted an act of civility to w

ed by bathing themselves when they first entered a house. Mother. As you have pointed out a story in the Old Testament, I

er. As you have pointed out a story in the Old Testament, I will tell you one from the New. When two of the apostles were a

took them for Jupiter and Mercury. Read the 14th chapter of Acts, and you will come to the narrative. Ann. (Takes the Bibl

then aloud to her mother.) “When,” & c. See page 53. Mother. Now you see one of the uses of classical fables. Ann. I

o explain the Bible sometimes. I never beard a nightingale sing; have you ? Mother. The nightingale is not known in America

of Western Asia. She is called in poetry, Philomela, from that fable you have been reading. The fable might be concluded b

auria, to “see your sister Herse. I desire to make her my bride. Will you have the goodness to persuade your sister to favo

mother, but our good nurse, Euryclea, is our friend and companion. If you will give me money enough, I will conduct you to

riend and companion. If you will give me money enough, I will conduct you to her, and she will present you to my sister.” M

give me money enough, I will conduct you to her, and she will present you to my sister.” Minerva was near, and overheard th

thers shall be miserable themselves, therefore make her as unhappy as you can. When she finds that her selfish, envious dis

re Christ. Ann. What was the, wisdom of the Egyptians? Mother. When you read the history of Joseph, you read that he was

isdom of the Egyptians? Mother. When you read the history of Joseph, you read that he was a servant to a king’s officer; t

ld, built a granary and distributed com to people all over Egypt. So, you see the Egyptians had a king, and the king had a

e made; and that the people had laws, and obeyed them. All that shows you the Egyptians were civilized, and that they might

me gods? Mother. Yes, though they called them by different names. Do you not remember that the Pierian princess said, in h

ury was an Egyptian god. The Egyptians called him Hermes. I will tell you his attributes. Ann. What do you mean by his att

ians called him Hermes. I will tell you his attributes. Ann. What do you mean by his attributes? Mother. What we call his

carried messages for the gods; such was his function, or business. Do you understand me? Ann. Very well. What was the cadu

tamorphosed them to stone, as Aglauria was. Mother. Yes. I will tell you a pretty story of Mercury. One morning, very earl

s called the lyre, and was a favourite instrument of the Greeks. When you read in poetry of the “vocal shell,” it means thi

s fairies and kind fairies. Mother. Somewhat like them. Shall I tell you another story? Ann. If you please. I should like

Mother. Somewhat like them. Shall I tell you another story? Ann. If you please. I should like to hear one. Mother. That

es, to learn what good or evil might happen to her son. Before I tell you what the prophet told Lyriope, I will give you hi

her son. Before I tell you what the prophet told Lyriope, I will give you his history, for you may read of him again. Tires

l you what the prophet told Lyriope, I will give you his history, for you may read of him again. Tiresias was considered th

d make peace between those who quarrelled. Once Jupiter and Juno, who you know was the god’s wife, had a dispute; and they

ge things in the adventures of Europa and her brother Cadmus. How can you explain the flight of Europa. Mother. I suppose

off Europa. Then the attendants said a bull carried her off. Arm. Do you suppose a heifer guided Cadmus? Mother. He might

illed, the survivers joined Cadmus. You will remember all the dragons you have read of, guarded wells and gardens. In those

ns. Ann. Your account makes the story of Cadmus quite plain. I thank you for it. Mother. It requires attention and though

requires attention and thought, to understand any thing. Another day you shall have more stories of the family of Cadmus.

he exclaimed, “Eternal toil and eternal fatigue is your portion. Know you , that while you suffer here, your brother Athamas

ternal toil and eternal fatigue is your portion. Know you, that while you suffer here, your brother Athamas inhabits a luxu

, as he lifted the heavy stone from the ground, and said, “The misery you see here may content you; suffer those who breath

stone from the ground, and said, “The misery you see here may content you ; suffer those who breathe the upper air to enjoy

just judges of the dead will recompense Athamas for all the evil that you and the foul Tisiphone can bring upon him.” Juno

throw back the serpents which hung over her face, replied, “Goddess, you shall be obeyed. Now, leave this forlorn place.”

, the gods would make them amends in another life. These Furies, whom you have read of as very cruel, some persons called b

be endured. Conversation: Mother and Ann. Mother. Ann, perhaps you can tell me the moral of this story? Ann. It is

, for he had given a kingdom to his grandson. Mother. And what think you of Pentheus? Ann. That he was not very prudent t

His respect for his old grandfather was an excellent quality. How do you explain the virtue of discretion, or prudence? A

cold. My cold will be the consequence of my imprudence. Mother. Did you ever hear of cause and effect? Ann. Yes. My wear

ld, and the cold would be the effect. Mother. That is right. What do you think of Bacchus? Ann. I presume that he was a m

god. Mother. That is very probable. Does the history of Agave teach you any thing? Ann. Yes. It shows me that to drink t

rica are pagans, and some Christians are superstitious. Ann. What do you mean by superstitious? Mother. Men, in many prac

isit mentioned in the second chapter of Matthew. Mother. I will tell you how the people of Florence, and some other Italia

weet sleep. Dictys spoke first. “Unhappy lady,” said he, “whence came you ? Have you been shipwrecked? Have all your compani

. Dictys spoke first. “Unhappy lady,” said he, “whence came you? Have you been shipwrecked? Have all your companions perish

s, was dashed upon some fatal rock.” “Alas! good man,” replied Danæ, “ you see before you all the vessel in which I have enc

pon some fatal rock.” “Alas! good man,” replied Danæ, “you see before you all the vessel in which I have encountered the se

mpassionate heart. “Young stranger,” said he to her, “do not despair; you are not among barbarians. A king more merciful th

il vessel to Seriphus. Polydectes, our king, will receive and protect you , I know.” “I know not Polydectes, nor the way to

child, and follow me to my cabin. There is my wife; she will welcome you ; and I will present myself to the king, and tell

ng, and tell him your misfortunes; I know he will receive and comfort you .” Cheered by the good man’s eagerness to serve he

nd this pretty child, were thrown upon our shore by the waves; I know you will shelter and comfort them.” “Indeed I will, i

d him graciously, and Perseus thus announced himself: “You see before you , great king, a son of Jupiter. Descended from the

you, great king, a son of Jupiter. Descended from the immortal gods, you will not refuse me hospitality. With your permiss

ou must,” said he, “give him your beautiful daughter, Andromeda. When you are returned home, you must chain her to a rock w

e him your beautiful daughter, Andromeda. When you are returned home, you must chain her to a rock which projects into the

themselves. I trust them; I know they will afford me help to deliver you : but tell me how came you to be in this sad condi

I know they will afford me help to deliver you: but tell me how came you to be in this sad condition? Andromeda then relat

mself to Perseus; “You have taken another man’s bride. It may be that you do not know the perfidy of her father and mother.

se, they did not wait for me to claim her, but have bestowed her upon you . Restore her to me; else thou and they may dread

f Danæ and Perseus. Conversation: Mother and Ann. Ann. Mother, you say Polydectes hated Perseus for his fine qualiti

ister for being amiable and pretty. All that is very strange. What do you call that feeling, the hatred of the bad for the

ients personified envy. Ann. What does personify mean? Mother. Envy you know, my child, is a bad passion, which persons f

which persons feel. It cannot be seen, like a woman or child, though you may think of it. But poets, and writers of fables

an opportunity, as Polydectes would have hurt Perseus. Now, I suppose you know what a personification is. Ann. Yes. I know

truth; I should personify truth. Mother. That is right. I will give you a story in which envy is personified. Ann. First

I will give you a story in which envy is personified. Ann. First, if you please, tell me something about Hymen. Mother. H

e north wind; Auster, the south; and Zephyrus, the west I cannot give you a name for the east wind. The Pierides.   

r your numbers nor your talents: there are nine of us, and no more of you . Let us try our skill together; and let the nymph

kill together; and let the nymphs of the valley decide between us. If you are vanquished, we claim that you should resign t

of the valley decide between us. If you are vanquished, we claim that you should resign to us Mount Helicon, and the founta

, and the fountains Hippocrene and Aganippe; and, on the contrary, if you are found to excel us, you may demand the delight

ene and Aganippe; and, on the contrary, if you are found to excel us, you may demand the delightful country of Emathia, as

circumstances belong to this story: many associations. Ann. What do you mean by associations? Mother. Nothing that we se

or hear, or think of, is quite alone. When I speak of Sunday, what do you immediately think of? Ann. When I hear Sunday me

t is, they are associated with one another. You have seen the objects you speak of at the same time. This thinking of thing

this relate to Apollo? Mother. It was necessary for me to explain to you folly the term, or word association, before I cou

plain to you folly the term, or word association, before I could make you understand that many associations belong to the s

as a street at Athens called the street of the Tripods. Ann. What do you mean by antique? Mother. Ancient, or in fashion

ory. Apollo’s favourite and most honourable crown was the laurel, and you shall read a story concerning it Ann. I should l

ged her with tender entreaties. “Stay, lovely Daphne,” he exclaimed; “ you fly from me because you do not know who I am. I a

eaties. “Stay, lovely Daphne,” he exclaimed; “you fly from me because you do not know who I am. I am not a shepherd of the

or as the word is, laurels. Mother. You understand, I perceive, what you have been told concerning literal and figurative

ave been told concerning literal and figurative language. I must tell you a little more concerning Apollo. You have seen ca

t things in it is the Belvidere Apollo. A print of him is in the book you have been reading. Belvidere signifies beautiful

onveyed to the Vatican, where it is carefully preserved. I will allow you to read to me another day some few more Classical

ome few more Classical Tales; but when they shall have been finished, you must return to something useful. Ann. Are not th

ing useful. Ann. Are not these useful? Mother; Yes; they will enable you to understand pictures, and statues, and poetry,

able you to understand pictures, and statues, and poetry, better than you could have done without reading them. But, at pre

etter than you could have done without reading them. But, at present, you can afford no more time to fictions; you must rea

ading them. But, at present, you can afford no more time to fictions; you must read facts. I have a book of Grecian History

must read facts. I have a book of Grecian History,10 which will teach you many important truths connected with the Greeks.

ge. “I,” said Epaphus, “am the son of Jupiter, the chief of the gods; you , Phæton, cannot boast of so glorious an origin.”

of Apollo; but perhaps he is not your father. Did he acknowledge that you were his son? “My mother, Clymene,” answered Phæt

the son of Apollo; and I will instantly go to her, and tell her that you dispute her word, and do not believe that I am, l

ce has no more glorious ancestors than your own; as I have often told you , they are the very same. Go to the palace of the

e very same. Go to the palace of the sun; the god of day will receive you with tenderness, I am sure; he will comfort you.

d of day will receive you with tenderness, I am sure; he will comfort you . The taunts of mortals will not disturb your repo

comfort you. The taunts of mortals will not disturb your repose, when you are assured of the truth of your mother, and the

Apollo, could restrain them. “Audacious young man,” replied the god; “ you know not what you ask. To conduct the flaming car

rain them. “Audacious young man,” replied the god; “you know not what you ask. To conduct the flaming car of day is an ente

d bum incense on the altars of her children. Apollo and Diana command you , by my voice, to pay them homage.” The people rea

wed by a splendid retinue. “Thebans,” cried Niobe, “I have come among you in pity for your folly; how absurd is your homage

is your homage to Latona, who is only a mortal, and who cannot serve you , let you flatter her ever so foolishly, or suppli

homage to Latona, who is only a mortal, and who cannot serve you, let you flatter her ever so foolishly, or supplicate her

latter her ever so foolishly, or supplicate her ever so fervently. If you have heard her history, you must know that, previ

, or supplicate her ever so fervently. If you have heard her history, you must know that, previous to the birth of her chil

fused her one, so that she can have no power to bestow any thing upon you . “If a mortal deserves your homage, behold your q

r, and approaching, one of them thus coarsely accosted her: ‘Why come you hither, woman; is there no other water in the wor

Why come you hither, woman; is there no other water in the world that you must come to drink of this lake? “‘Can any man be

The people of Greece, who made up all the stories I am going to tell you , believed that if they did anything wrong it woul

as Juno, the queen of heaven, who helped him in his work. I am afraid you will not love Juno very much by the time you have

in his work. I am afraid you will not love Juno very much by the time you have read all the stories I am going to tell you;

ery much by the time you have read all the stories I am going to tell you ; for she was selfish and jealous, and, like all s

des Jupiter and Juno there were many other gods and goddesses; and as you are going to read stories about some of them, I w

and as you are going to read stories about some of them, I will tell you who they were. Apollo was the god of the sun, of

as built of seaweeds and corals and shells. I must not forget to tell you of Minerva, the goddess of wisdom and of war. The

King Pluto. He was very lonely in his somber palace; and one time, as you shall hear, he came to earth and stole away the d

eat, wide, beautiful, wonderful world, With the wonderful water round you curled, And the wonderful grass upon your breast 

r round you curled, And the wonderful grass upon your breast — World, you are beautifully dressed. The wonderful air is ov

s to itself on the tops of the hills. You friendly earth, how far do you go, With the wheat-fields that nod and the rivers

flow. With cities and gardens, and cliffs and isles, And people upon you for thousands of miles? Ah! you are so great, an

nd cliffs and isles, And people upon you for thousands of miles? Ah! you are so great, and I am so small, I tremble to thi

iles? Ah! you are so great, and I am so small, I tremble to think of you , world, at all (Lilliput Lectures.) The Great

Great Bear and the Little Bear This is a story about a woman whom you will all love. Almost everybody loved Callisto an

, to shine there forever, — the Great Bear and the Little Bear. There you may see them on any starry night and think of the

he Great Bear or the Little Bear enter his ocean palace. If some time you watch the stars over the ocean, you will see that

er his ocean palace. If some time you watch the stars over the ocean, you will see that as the night passes, they seem to s

dearly. And no wonder, for Proserpine was the sunniest, happiest girl you could imagine. Her face was all white and pink, l

lossoms in spring, and there was just enough blue in her eyes to give you a glimpse of an April morning sky. Her long, gold

ou a glimpse of an April morning sky. Her long, golden curls reminded you of the bright sunlight. In fact, there was someth

e was something so young and fair and tender about the maiden that if you could imagine anything so strange as the whole sp

hole springtime, with all its loveliness, changed into a human being, you would have looked but an instant at Proserpine an

x big, speckled frogs, croaking away with all their might. Now poets, you must know, love beautiful things, and these frogs

e, ordered her not to drink. “What!” said Latona in surprise, “surely you wijl not forbid me to drink of this pure water, w

harm. Then Latona began to plead, with tears in her eyes. “Surely, if you have no pity for me,” she said, “you cannot be so

h tears in her eyes. “Surely, if you have no pity for me,” she said, “ you cannot be so cruel to these little children who s

ot be so cruel to these little children who stretch out their arms to you .” And, as she put aside her cloak, the little boy

u can find out for yourselves whether or not it is true, any day when you walk in the woods or go through a tunnel. In fact

woods or go through a tunnel. In fact, I should not wonder if most of you have already tried giving some call when you are

ld not wonder if most of you have already tried giving some call when you are passing under a bridge, in order to hear the

. She did not dare show herself, for fear that he might be angry, but you see she could not help answering. At last Narciss

hrow her arms around his neck, to tell him her love in that way; for, you know, the poor girl could not tell it in words. B

          O sweet Echo,             O fleet Echo, Can we not overtake you , following with a will?                          

                (Ah, Will!) ’Tis my name, but much I wonder     That you , in your hiding place, On the shady hill or under

hat you, in your hiding place, On the shady hill or under,     Things you never knew can trace!             Declare, mocker

                                    (Is Grace!) What sweet things do you resemble,     Morning dewdrops, starry gleams, Fl

                         (But dreams!) Then come down and let us see you ;     If you cannot come to stay, Ask the stern ol

             (But dreams!) Then come down and let us see you;     If you cannot come to stay, Ask the stern old hill to fr

e you;     If you cannot come to stay, Ask the stern old hill to free you     Just for half a holiday.             O glad E

       O glad Echo,             O sad Echo, To escape your prison can you find no way?                                     

f.” At the time, no one understood the meaning of the words; but when you have read this story, I think you will see what t

the meaning of the words; but when you have read this story, I think you will see what the wise man meant. Narcissus was v

, she was far greater in her skill than the goddess Minerva. Minerva, you remember, was the goddess of wisdom and of war; b

not compare yourself with the gods. Ask pardon for the foolish words you have just spoken. I promise you that Minerva will

ods. Ask pardon for the foolish words you have just spoken. I promise you that Minerva will grant it.” But the young girl o

y, as she answered in a very churlish tone, “You are an old woman and you speak like one. Let Minerva come and try her skil

end her shame and sorrow. But Minerva held her back and cried, “Nay, you shall live, wicked girl; but henceforth you shall

her back and cried, “Nay, you shall live, wicked girl; but henceforth you shall hang from a thread, and all your race shall

r’s legs, and, hanging from her thread, she spun and spun forever. If you can find a dusty old corner in an attic, or if yo

d spun forever. If you can find a dusty old corner in an attic, or if you will look closely along your garden wall, perhaps

an attic, or if you will look closely along your garden wall, perhaps you will see, if not Arachne herself, at least one of

em there was a huge monster, so ugly that I will not even try to tell you what it looked like, and so wicked and cruel that

slew it, after a fierce battle. The people were then very happy; and you may be sure that they made a great ado over Apoll

meet but the little god Cupid, armed with his bow and arrows? Cupid, you remember, was the young god of love, sometimes ca

god of love, sometimes called god of the bow; and I promised to tell you how wonderful his arrows were. Some of them were

. When Apollo met Cupid thus armed, he began to taunt him. “What have you to do with the arrow?” he cried, in a boastful to

n, “Though your arrow may pierce all other things, my arrow can wound you .” Then he flew off in a very bad humor, and tried

nd brambles; and at last he cried, “Do not try to run from me. I love you , and will do you no harm. I am the great sun god

at last he cried, “Do not try to run from me. I love you, and will do you no harm. I am the great sun god Apollo.” 8. “I

wept and threw his arms about the newly formed bark and said, “Since you cannot be my wife, fair Daphne, at least you shal

ed bark and said, “Since you cannot be my wife, fair Daphne, at least you shall be my tree, my laurel. Your foliage shall b

emblem from that day on, became the sign of honor and triumph. If now you should ever hear the phrase “crowned with laurel,

riumph. If now you should ever hear the phrase “crowned with laurel,” you will know what it means, if only you remember the

he phrase “crowned with laurel,” you will know what it means, if only you remember the story of Apollo and Daphne. ——— Cup

urydice, — a thing that few human beings had ever tried to do. Hades, you remember, was the land of the dead, ruled by King

him, in a rough manner, to play them some gay music. Now Orpheus, as you know, could think only of sad things since Eurydi

The Queen Huntress and a Bold Hunter The story I am going to tell you is of that beautiful maiden Diana, goddess of the

open mouths and hissing tongues. Not very pleasant creatures to meet, you may well say. With one blow of their tails or of

king was delighted and said, “If I thought that, my boy, I would let you undertake a task that I am saving for the bravest

e a task that I am saving for the bravest man in my kingdom.” “And do you think me worthy of this honor?” cried Perseus, in

of this honor?” cried Perseus, in great delight. “You may try it, if you like,” answered the king. “It is to bring me the

eep the tears from his eyes. Suddenly a voice said, “Perseus, why are you weeping?” Perseus raised his head in surprise, an

lent for a few moments, lost in deep thought, and then said, “My boy, you have undertaken a dangerous task, yet with my hel

said, “My boy, you have undertaken a dangerous task, yet with my help you may succeed. But first of all, you must promise t

a dangerous task, yet with my help you may succeed. But first of all, you must promise to do in all things just as I tell y

But first of all, you must promise to do in all things just as I tell you .” Perseus promised, and in the next story you wil

l things just as I tell you.” Perseus promised, and in the next story you will hear whether or not he succeeded. ——— Lulla

rangest thing about them was that instead of having two eyes each, as you and I have, there was but one eye for all three o

is my turn.” And the middle one, who had the eye, cried out, “I pray you , sisters, let me keep the eye a little longer. I

ce, called out, “You shall not have your eye back, my friends, unless you tell me exactly how to find the island on which M

how he had met fair Andromeda, which is the story I am going to tell you next. In return, he heard how cruelly the king ha

eus, for he, too, had thought him dead. “Aha, Perseus!” he cried, “so you have come back without doing what you promised to

. “Aha, Perseus!” he cried, “so you have come back without doing what you promised to do. Your courage is not so great as y

ithout doing what you promised to do. Your courage is not so great as you would have us believe.” “Nay, your majesty,” answ

ur majesty,” answered Perseus, “I have slain Medusa, and have brought you back her head.” “That you must prove by showing u

eus, “I have slain Medusa, and have brought you back her head.” “That you must prove by showing us the head,” said the king

of the happy rescue of Andromeda by Perseus, which I promised to tell you next. It all happened after Perseus had slain Med

e was placed among the stars, and on a starry night any one will show you Cassiopeia’s Chair, brightly shining in the heave

, the sea nymphs will be satisfied, and the sea serpent shall trouble you no longer.” Great was the grief of the people at

erpent. But the oracle repeated only the same heartless answer, — “If you wish your town and all the people to be saved fro

r, — “If you wish your town and all the people to be saved from ruin, you must give up your daughter.” Then Cassiopeia went

romeda. Give her to me peaceably, or else I and my soldiers will kill you all.” Andromeda was very much frightened and clun

his right hand on a bag which he wore at his side and said, “The one you call your bride, sir, is my wife, and no power of

m only a pleasant companion for her walks. But Juno hated Io; for, as you remember, I have told you what a jealous queen sh

n for her walks. But Juno hated Io; for, as you remember, I have told you what a jealous queen she was, and she could not b

n was so dark that it seemed almost to hide the sunlight. I have told you that the gods knew everything. So, in some way, J

his will. As Juno led Io away, she said to herself, “Now that I have you , I will take good care to keep you.” So she set o

said to herself, “Now that I have you, I will take good care to keep you .” So she set one of her servants, Argus, to watch

tired he was, he never closed more than half of them at one time. If you or 1 had fifty sharp eyes watching us day and nig

she could steal away from the many things that kept her busy. Thebes, you must know, was a very great city indeed, and ther

and then said, in a haughty tone, “You women of Thebes, wherefore do you worship Latona, whom you have never seen, when he

hty tone, “You women of Thebes, wherefore do you worship Latona, whom you have never seen, when here I stand before you wit

ou worship Latona, whom you have never seen, when here I stand before you with all my wealth and power? Am I not far greate

that number, each one of them more lovely than Apollo or Diana, whom you honor. “I am far greater than Latona; for if all

women of Thebes, and cast away your wreaths. Me, and me only, should you worship, for I am greater than Latona.” At these

iet her, and promised to punish the queen and to humble her pride. As you remember, nothing angered the gods so much as boa

ven, she cried, “You have taken revenge, most cruel Latona, and think you have broken my heart. Yet I am still greater and

hink you have broken my heart. Yet I am still greater and richer than you , for I have seven children left, and you have onl

till greater and richer than you, for I have seven children left, and you have only two.” Now Apollo and Diana, on seeing N

g Thebes, and placed it there among the other rocks. And to this day, you can see the woman of stone seated on the high mou

n see the woman of stone seated on the high mountain top; or at least you can see a rock that looks something like a woman;

on forever. ——— Children Come to me, O ye children!     For I hear you at your play, And the questions that perplexed me

s the twelve great labors of Hercules. It would take too long to tell you much about them, for each is a story in itself. T

m his grasp. “Aha,” laughed Hercules, when he saw what had happened, “ you think you will escape me that way? Why, I slew se

p. “Aha,” laughed Hercules, when he saw what had happened, “you think you will escape me that way? Why, I slew serpents thr

ng. He raised his bow to his shoulder and cried out, “O false Nessus, you rely on your swift horse’s feet to carry you beyo

ed out, “O false Nessus, you rely on your swift horse’s feet to carry you beyond my reach, but my arrow is swifter than the

“Take this, fair bride, and if ever your husband should cease to love you , send him this garment dipped in the blood of a d

d in the blood of a dying centaur, and it will bring his love back to you .” Scarcely had he finished speaking when he fell

red it could never find his way out again. Perhaps, in another story, you will hear something more about this labyrinth and

carus, my boy, watch me all the time, and follow where I lead; for if you go too low the water may clog your wings, and if

e I lead; for if you go too low the water may clog your wings, and if you fly too high the heat of the sun will scorch them

age. “Try, my son,” she said, when she had finished, “and see whether you can lift the stone.” Theseus bent his knee and, u

Rise! For the Day Is Passing Rise! for the day is passing,     And you lie dreaming on; The others have buckled their ar

rmor     And forth to the fight are gone. A place in the ranks awaits you ,     Each man has some part to play; The past and

so great as to-day. Rise! for the day is passing;     The sound that you scarcely hear Is the enemy marching to battle    

or your sake I have stolen my father’s purple lock, which will enable you to conquer the city. Take it, with my love.” But

” But Minos stepped back from her in horror. “What!” he cried, “would you risk the life of your father, and do harm to your

ould do that would do anything wicked. I will have nothing to do with you or your evil deeds.” Morning was breaking as he s

the water, and, grasping the helm of the boat, cried, “I will go with you whether you want me or not, for without you life

nd, grasping the helm of the boat, cried, “I will go with you whether you want me or not, for without you life is worthless

t, cried, “I will go with you whether you want me or not, for without you life is worthless to me. The gates of my own city

losed against me, for I have betrayed it for your sake. I will follow you ; for if I have been a traitor to my people, I hav

I have been a traitor to my people, I have at least been a friend to you .” The soldiers pushed her roughly from the boat,

e in the besieged city had soon eaten up their store of food, and, as you will understand, they had no way of getting any m

te to ask on what terms he would leave the city. You remember, I told you in another story, that whereas Minos could be a v

nemy. What he asked of the people of Athens was very hard indeed; but you must not forget how the poor father’s heart was b

e than a child. Fear not — I will kill the Minotaur, and come back to you in triumph.” And so he went on his way. During th

arkled, as he said, “Is not the young prince of Athens standing among you ?” “I am he, your majesty,” answered Theseus proud

our majesty,” answered Theseus proudly, “and I have a favor to ask of you . I pray you, let my companions sleep in the court

” answered Theseus proudly, “and I have a favor to ask of you. I pray you , let my companions sleep in the courtyard to-nigh

nce, Ariadne spoke. “Prince Theseus,” she said, “my heart grieves for you and your friends who must die this dreadful death

death. You are brave and strong, and your sword is sharp. Why should you not slay the monster and escape to-night with all

said old Philemon, “our cottage is small and our fare humble, but if you will share it with us, we shall feel honored.” Th

e spoke. “My good people,” he said, “know that the two strangers whom you have entertained so graciously and kindly are no

ed with a smile to the astonished couple. “My good people,” said he, “ you alone of all the village have been saved, and you

into a temple of the gods. ‘Before I leave this place, ask any favor you choose, and it shall be granted.” Philemon and Ba

ht but an instant and then answered with one accord, “Let us, we pray you , be the guardians of your beautiful temple as lon

e; and thereupon he and his companion, Mercury — whose name I am sure you have all long since guessed — vanished from sight

ng among the leaves. A Dream That Came True I am going to tell you the sad story of Ceyx and Halcyone, a king and qu

centaur named Chiron, and he might be called only half a person; for, you remember, the centaurs had bodies like those of h

the mountain, and said, “My son, forget not the lessons I have taught you . Always speak and act the truth, and be kind to a

s, the stately form of Juno, queen of heaven. “Young man,” said she, “ you have a good and brave heart, and you shall not re

heaven. “Young man,” said she, “you have a good and brave heart, and you shall not regret your kindness to an old woman;”

m him by a youth wearing only one sandal, and one of Jason’s feet, as you know, was bare. But the crafty king pretended to

ds.” At this the king laughed aloud. “Is it possible,” said he, “that you have never heard the story of the Golden Fleece?

he had finished, Jason sprang to his feet and cried, “I will prove to you , oh king, that the race of heroes is not dead. I

ve to you, oh king, that the race of heroes is not dead. I will bring you the Golden Fleece, or die in the attempt.” The ki

en her promise to help him. It was a very wonderful piece of wood, as you will agree when I tell you that it could speak. M

It was a very wonderful piece of wood, as you will agree when I tell you that it could speak. Many a time during the long

voyage, during which there happened many wonderful things about which you will some day hear, the Argonauts arrived at Colc

Golden Fleece in the wood, and never sleeps by night or by day. When you have succeeded in doing these three things, you m

night or by day. When you have succeeded in doing these three things, you may take the Golden Fleece back with you to Greec

in doing these three things, you may take the Golden Fleece back with you to Greece.” Thus spake the king and then dismisse

d the field, the two bulls came snorting and bellowing toward him. If you could have seen the creatures, you would have bel

rting and bellowing toward him. If you could have seen the creatures, you would have believed, as all the people did, that

n shall I hear your merry laughter ringing through the woods, nor see you wandering in the grove with your playmate. The bi

y song, and the leaves and the flowers will seem less bright now that you are gone from them. All the shy, wild creatures o

res of the grove will steal from their hiding places, and wonder that you no longer come to greet them. But I will mourn fo

nd wonder that you no longer come to greet them. But I will mourn for you forever, Cyparissus, and you shall mourn for othe

come to greet them. But I will mourn for you forever, Cyparissus, and you shall mourn for others, and shall henceforth be t

half fish. She stepped nearer to the water and said, “Pray, what are you , a man or a sea monster?” Then Glaucus related hi

y whom Apollo loved very dearly. Hyacinthus was his name, and I think you will agree with me that it is a very pretty name.

ladly have died for him, and he did not care to live without him; but you know the gods could never die. He lay on the grou

e of his dead friend, and wept and moaned, so that it would have made you cry, too, if you had seen him. Then, at last, he

end, and wept and moaned, so that it would have made you cry, too, if you had seen him. Then, at last, he seized his lyre,

e setting sun fell around the statue of the loveliest young girl that you could imagine. It did not seem like an image; the

on, until the time of the great festival of Venus was at hand. Venus, you know, was the goddess of love, and once a year, t

ith him into a contest of musical skill. Apollo, the sun god, was, as you know, the sweetest singer in the world; therefore

A strange and beautiful picture it must have been, and I wish all of you could have been there to see it. Pan was the firs

was something in his music that belonged to the woods and the rivers; you could almost hear the gurgling of the brooks and

ople indeed, and were much larger and stronger than any of the giants you have read about in your fairy tales. They lived i

fierce look. For these strange beings, instead of having two eyes, as you and I have? had but a single large one; and that

middle of their foreheads with such an angry glare that it frightened you much more than a hundred ordinary eyes could have

likely to have feelings of love or tenderness. Yet I am going to tell you a story which will prove that the Cyclops could l

elves in their green caves. And this is the song he sang: “O Galatea, you are fairer than the petals of the whitest blossom

sing to me than the winter’s sun or the summer’s shade. Why, then, do you fly from me? “If you knew me, you would listen to

inter’s sun or the summer’s shade. Why, then, do you fly from me? “If you knew me, you would listen to my pleading. My cave

r the summer’s shade. Why, then, do you fly from me? “If you knew me, you would listen to my pleading. My cave is in the he

of the midday sun is never felt, nor the icy cold of midwinter; there you will find trees laden with rosy apples, and vines

sy apples, and vines with clusters of golden and purple grapes; there you may gather the wild red strawberries in the woodl

r the wild red strawberries in the woodland shade; there will I bring you chestnuts and the fruit of all the other trees. “

have sweet milk to drink and fresh white cheese to eat. For playmates you shall have the young deer and the hares and the l

s, and, like a grove of trees, throws a shadow about my head. Surely, you must think this beautiful. A tree is bare without

likewise has but one eye. “My father rules over the blue sea in which you sport. Listen to my prayer, for I will make you h

the blue sea in which you sport. Listen to my prayer, for I will make you happy. Come from your ocean home, oh whitest nymp

ome from your ocean home, oh whitest nymph, come unto me who long for you .” Thus sang Polyphemus. But Galatea was only frig

faded ones she had not let fall when the grim god seized her. “I hope you will like it here,” said Pluto, as they drove on.

ike it here,” said Pluto, as they drove on. “It is very pleasant, and you shall have all the gold and jewels you wish. You

on. “It is very pleasant, and you shall have all the gold and jewels you wish. You shall sit beside me on my throne, and w

met a spirit of sleep, or of dreams, she would stop it and ask, “Have you seen my daughter, Proserpina?” But none of the sp

and look at her with gentle, majestic eyes, and she would ask, “Have you seen my daughter, Proserpina?” But none of the ri

raised her beautiful face and dripping hair above the surface. “Have you seen my daughter, Proserpina?” asked Ceres. She h

did she wear violets and lilies in her hair and dress?” “Tell me what you know of her!” cried Ceres. Then Arethusa told of

flower, nor blade of grass — until Proserpina comes back. Choose what you will do!” When she had said this, Ceres turned an

ods and. of Men,” he said, “let there be peace between the Titans and you . Help us, and help mankind, who suffer.” “Speak,”

nd help mankind, who suffer.” “Speak,” said Jupiter. “What is it that you wish?” “Give me some gift for men, O Jupiter!” an

t such power.” One day she said to Epimetheus, “Would it be wrong, do you think, to raise the lid, just for a moment, to se

, to raise the lid, just for a moment, to see what is inside? What do you suppose can make those strange, sweet sounds we h

know how to use them. I have slain Python with my darts, but what can you do with yours?” The little god did not like the w

e little god did not like the words of the great archer. “I can shoot you , Apollo,” said he, “and I will, too.” But Apollo

scornfully. “You had better lay aside the bow, lest some evil befall you , child. Stick to your lamp, with which you fry th

bow, lest some evil befall you, child. Stick to your lamp, with which you fry the hearts of foolish mortals.” With these wo

pollo followed, and tried to soothe her with gentle pleading. “Why do you flee from me, Daphne?” he called. “Am I a wild be

led. “Am I a wild beast — a lion or fierce tiger? Stop, for I will do you no harm. I am Apollo, the god of beauty and sonar

do you no harm. I am Apollo, the god of beauty and sonar, and I love you , Daphne. All the world worships me, and you shall

uty and sonar, and I love you, Daphne. All the world worships me, and you shall have all that the world can give. Do but st

flowers, which seemed even then to draw back from his touch. “Though you would not be my bride, Daphne,” he said, “you sha

from his touch. “Though you would not be my bride, Daphne,” he said, “ you shall be my tree, and the tree of all poets among

he underworld would never miss from its hosts of inhabitants. “I pray you , let her go,” he sang to the dark ruler. “She wil

e. You do but lend her to me, not lose her. Think, O Pluto, what pain you suffer while Proserpina is away from you each yea

r. Think, O Pluto, what pain you suffer while Proserpina is away from you each year — but my sorrow is greater, for Eurydic

s lost to me all the year. Think, O Proserpina, great queen, what woe you suffered when you thought never again to see the

he year. Think, O Proserpina, great queen, what woe you suffered when you thought never again to see the face of majestic C

l as a goddess of Olympus. “Take her, sweet singer,” said Pluto, “for you have deserved her well; but have a care. If befor

id Pluto, “for you have deserved her well; but have a care. If before you reach the upper world you look back to see her, y

served her well; but have a care. If before you reach the upper world you look back to see her, you must lose her. Follow h

a care. If before you reach the upper world you look back to see her, you must lose her. Follow him, Eurydice.” Then Orpheu

all else. “It is true, after all,” he cried. “They have really given you back, O my Eurydice!” and he turned round. There

id the other would reach him first. “Hercules,” she said, “I see that you are in doubt which path you will choose. If you w

first. “Hercules,” she said, “I see that you are in doubt which path you will choose. If you will follow me, I will lead y

she said, “I see that you are in doubt which path you will choose. If you will follow me, I will lead you along the smoothe

doubt which path you will choose. If you will follow me, I will lead you along the smoothest way, and the pleasantest. You

the smoothest way, and the pleasantest. You shall taste of every joy, you shall never meet with any sorrow, you shall never

. You shall taste of every joy, you shall never meet with any sorrow, you shall never have to worry about any troubles, you

et with any sorrow, you shall never have to worry about any troubles, you shall never know hunger or thirst; best of all, y

out any troubles, you shall never know hunger or thirst; best of all, you shall never have to fight in battle.” “A gentle w

hunger and thirst, pain and sorrow, toil, and the din of battle; but you shall learn to master them all, and you shall fin

l, and the din of battle; but you shall learn to master them all, and you shall find a joy deeper than earthly pleasure. Th

d a joy deeper than earthly pleasure. The gifts that Happiness offers you will perish, but my gifts will not perish.” These

them. He looked up, and all he said was, “Fair one, what do men call you ?” And she answered, “Men and gods alike call me V

Seek the giant Atlas, who holds the earth and sky apart. He will tell you where the gardens of the Hesperides are, and will

will tell you where the gardens of the Hesperides are, and will help you to get the golden apples; but let me go, I say!”

to listen to his story. “You wish to get the apples of Hesperides, do you ?” said Atlas. “You will do better to let me go af

do you?” said Atlas. “You will do better to let me go after them for you . I know just where the gardens are, and besides,

I know just where the gardens are, and besides, I am much taller than you and can get over the ground much more quickly. If

uch taller than you and can get over the ground much more quickly. If you will hold the sky up for me, I will bring the gol

I will bring the golden apples in a few minutes. You look strong, and you will not mind it. I will come back directly.” So

d. He did not in the least fancy taking up his burden again. “Suppose you let me take the apples to Eurystheus,” he said to

he shepherd-stranger saw the sad face of the king, he said: — “Why do you despair, O King Admetus? What is it that troubles

said: — “Why do you despair, O King Admetus? What is it that troubles you ?” Then the king told him all, and said: — “Do I n

thought of such a loss, but the stranger said: — “Call to me if ever you have need, for I will hear you always. I am Apoll

e stranger said: — “Call to me if ever you have need, for I will hear you always. I am Apollo.” When Admetus heard this, he

lo heard him and came. “If some one else will freely give up life for you ,” said the god of light and song, “you shall be s

e will freely give up life for you,” said the god of light and song, “ you shall be spared.” With that Apollo left, but the

, then, and put garlands on our brows while we may. So I would advise you to do, and rid yourself of your sour looks.” “Ah,

half back upon the ground. “Let me go,” whispered Death. “Let me go; you cannot kill me!” Then Hercules loosed his great a

ng, and said to him, “Go to your father. See whether he is ashamed of you . He will prove to you before the whole world that

Go to your father. See whether he is ashamed of you. He will prove to you before the whole world that he is not.” Phaëton h

not fail. He stood waiting for his father to speak. “What is it that you wish, my son?” asked Helios, gravely. “Father,” t

r,” the youth replied, “if I am a worthy son, give me some proof that you are not ashamed of your child.” And Helios, as he

was pleased with his courage and pride. “Indeed, I am not ashamed of you ,” he said. “What proof do you wish? — for you sha

and pride. “Indeed, I am not ashamed of you,” he said. “What proof do you wish? — for you shall surely have it.” Then Phaët

ed, I am not ashamed of you,” he said. “What proof do you wish? — for you shall surely have it.” Then Phaëton, without a mo

both, but Jupiter has brought us here. Help us, therefore, I beseech you .” Her words were queenly and gracious, and Dictys

own from his throne and came to greet her. “By what name shall I call you , fair princess?” he asked. “My name is Danaë,” sh

ho had noticed all, said to Perseus: “Come and sit by me, for I value you no less because you come without a gift.” At this

said to Perseus: “Come and sit by me, for I value you no less because you come without a gift.” At this, the young man held

the young man held his head up proudly and said: — “O King, whatever you may command me I will do. Perhaps I may yet bring

ome spoil won from your enemies, or from the foes of your land.” “Are you so willing?” answered the treacherous king. “Brin

stand against him who had it.” Then Perseus said: “If I live, O King, you shall have Medusa’s head,” and he arose and went

e saw before him a woman, very old and much bent with years. “Why are you here, Perseus, when the king and his court are fe

not see him again until I have it.” The aged woman smiled. “What can you do against Medusa?” she said. “All who look upon

es, he saw that she was smiling, and he felt no fear. “I will be with you , Perseus,” she said; “therefore, be of good coura

s,” she said; “therefore, be of good courage. Moreover I have brought you the sandals of Mercury, to help you on your way,

courage. Moreover I have brought you the sandals of Mercury, to help you on your way, and the helmet of Pluto, to make you

of Mercury, to help you on your way, and the helmet of Pluto, to make you invisible. Seek first the Grææ, the sisters of th

ible. Seek first the Grææ, the sisters of the Gorgons. They will tell you where Medusa is to be found.” With these words th

id. “Give us back our eye, man!” “Listen,” said Perseus. “I will give you the eye, but tell me first where I shall find the

she is our sister. Give us our eye and go your own way, lest we curse you .” But Perseus thought of Minerva and was not afra

m. “Go on,” they said, “three days to the west, across the sea. There you will find the home of the Gorgons.” Then Perseus

t which followed, King Cepheus cried to Perseus: — “What shall I give you , young hero? Ask, for you shall have it, even to

heus cried to Perseus: — “What shall I give you, young hero? Ask, for you shall have it, even to the half of my kingdom.” “

ed there, quivering. “King Polydectes,” said Perseus, “I have brought you the gift you wished. Here is the head of the Gorg

vering. “King Polydectes,” said Perseus, “I have brought you the gift you wished. Here is the head of the Gorgon Medusa.” W

ne,” said he, “I have put a sword and a pair of sandals. I must leave you to-day, and you must care for our child alone. Ke

have put a sword and a pair of sandals. I must leave you to-day, and you must care for our child alone. Keep him with you

eave you to-day, and you must care for our child alone. Keep him with you until he is able to lift the stone and get the sw

eus, “how long must I stay here idly at my grandfather’s court?” “But you are still only a boy, Theseus,” replied Æthra. “H

.” Æthra walked on without a word until they came to the stone. “When you can raise this stone and get what is under it, yo

o the stone. “When you can raise this stone and get what is under it, you may go,” she said. Theseus took hold of it and li

ns to your father, King Ægeus, for the time has come when I must lose you .” Next day Theseus was ready to set out. His gran

k, Theseus. Refresh yourself and be of good cheer, for the king loves you well.” Then Theseus took the wine and, smiling, r

had recognized the sword which the young hero was wearing. “Where got you that sword, young man?” he cried out. “Speak! Who

ake her eyes from his fair, noble face. “Oh, father,” she said, “will you destroy one who is so princely?” But King Minos a

slay the beast now, fair princess,” he said. “All Athens shall thank you for this.” “But you do not know all the danger,”

fair princess,” he said. “All Athens shall thank you for this.” “But you do not know all the danger,” said Ariadne. “The M

his way out. There the Minotaur wanders, lost in the maze; and though you should meet and slay him, you would starve in the

r wanders, lost in the maze; and though you should meet and slay him, you would starve in the confusing paths. But you shal

hould meet and slay him, you would starve in the confusing paths. But you shall not, stranger, for I will save you from thi

in the confusing paths. But you shall not, stranger, for I will save you from this danger also.” Then she took from under

nder her cloak a skein of thread, as fine and delicate as cobweb. “As you go in, unwind this,” she said. “The way back will

nwind this,” she said. “The way back will then be easy. Come now, for you must act quickly.” So Theseus and Ariadne went ou

hers, mourn your sons!    Mothers, weep not your daughters! He brings you back your dear-loved ones    Across the Cretan wa

ening, when the sun is down and the crimson light is on these slopes, you shall meet here in the grove three goddesses. Tak

ods, spoke first. “Paris,” she said, “give me the prize. I shall make you ruler of many men and many nations. Wide acres sh

s. Wide acres shall be yours, and abundant wealth, and men shall obey you as if you were a god.” To the youthful shepherd,

res shall be yours, and abundant wealth, and men shall obey you as if you were a god.” To the youthful shepherd, who had li

ful, that her very presence commanded him to listen. “I will not give you power,” she said, “nor wealth, but wisdom and for

than power and more precious than wealth; and they shall be yours, if you give me the prize. In time of trouble, I shall be

e me the prize. In time of trouble, I shall be by your side and guide you with wise counsel, and keep you from harm.” “How

le, I shall be by your side and guide you with wise counsel, and keep you from harm.” “How precious are wisdom and courage!

leasure. “Give the apple to me, Paris,” she said. “Give it to me, and you shall have the most beautiful woman in the world.

: — “Helen, go out to the brook beyond the palace gates. Paris awaits you there. Heed his words.” Then Helen went out and f

se and said to him, “Speak freely and fear nothing, for I will defend you from harm, even though you shall anger Agamemnon

freely and fear nothing, for I will defend you from harm, even though you shall anger Agamemnon himself.” Then the priest m

m and caught him by his golden hair, and said: — “Do him no harm, for you shall yet have justice done you.” So Achilles pus

air, and said: — “Do him no harm, for you shall yet have justice done you .” So Achilles pushed back his sword into its shea

f my brothers, Deiphobus,” he said, “but from this time I shall honor you more than ever before.” With that, the two advanc

the priest of Neptune, came up. “What madness is this?” he cried. “Do you believe that the Greeks are gone? For my part, I

d King Priam. “Why was it made, and why is it so large?” “I will tell you all,” said the deceitful Sinon. “The Greeks have

e to Minerva before setting out. It was built large and heavy so that you might not be able to take it into the city, for i

heavy so that you might not be able to take it into the city, for if you should drag it within your walls, Troy would neve

walls, Troy would never fall. This horse would be a new Palladium for you .” Just then a wondrous thing happened. Across the

supper. Then, first, he noticed Ulysses and his companions. “Who are you , strangers?” he said, “and where have you come fr

nd his companions. “Who are you, strangers?” he said, “and where have you come from?” Their hearts sank at the sound of tha

and lost on the ocean. In the name of Jupiter, help us.” “What think you that the Cyclops Polyphemus cares for Jupiter?” r

he had drunk it. “Give me more, and tell me your name. I wish to give you a gift in return.” Ulysses poured out another bow

o, Polyphemus. What is the matter?” they called. “Is some one killing you ?” “Noman is killing me,” roared the Cyclops. “Wel

Noman is killing me,” roared the Cyclops. “Well, if no man is killing you , you must be sick. Diseases are sent by the gods;

is killing me,” roared the Cyclops. “Well, if no man is killing you, you must be sick. Diseases are sent by the gods; reme

ed off. A little way from the shore Ulysses called out, “Ho, Cyclops, you who eat the strangers within your gates, Jupiter

yclops, you who eat the strangers within your gates, Jupiter has made you pay well for your cruelty.” In his rage Polyphemu

e and again Ulysses called to the monster: — “Cyclops, if any one ask you who put out your eye, say that it was Ulysses, so

out your eye, say that it was Ulysses, son of Laertes, that punished you so.” “My father, Neptune, the god of ocean, will

at punished you so.” “My father, Neptune, the god of ocean, will make you pay for this, Ulysses,” said Polyphemus, and he c

are that your men do not lay violent hands on the Oxen of the Sun. If you harm them, I foretell the destruction of the ship

them, I foretell the destruction of the ship and all its crew, though you yourself may escape.” Ulysses and his men set sai

s it been. Consider well, for we all shall remain in the palace until you make the choice.” “Wait but until I finish this r

and wooing your wife, Penelope, against her will,” said Minerva. “Now you must punish them. But in order that you may make

her will,” said Minerva. “Now you must punish them. But in order that you may make your plans in safety, I will disguise yo

But in order that you may make your plans in safety, I will disguise you .” She shriveled him up and bowed him down and put

the palace, and appear among them. They will not dare to lay hands on you openly. I shall come a little later, in the disgu

ses, she came down to the hall with her maids to speak with him. “Can you not give me tidings of Ulysses?” she asked. “Inde

it and shoot through the rings,” said Telemachus, “no one shall have you .” Telemachus was the first to, try. Once, twice,

. “Let me take the bow,” said Ulysses. “Beggar!” cried Antinoüs. “Are you not content to feast here? Will you strive with y

s. “Beggar!” cried Antinoüs. “Are you not content to feast here? Will you strive with your betters?” “Let him take it,” sai

rom the temple with head veiled and garments unbound, and cast behind you the bones of your mother.” They heard the words w

lated with his recent victory over Python, he said to him, “What have you to do with warlike weapons, saucy boy? Leave them

ain! Be content with your torch, child, and kindle up your flames, as you call them, where you will, but presume not to med

your torch, child, and kindle up your flames, as you call them, where you will, but presume not to meddle with my weapons.”

Your arrows may strike all things else, Apollo, but mine shall strike you .” So saying, he took his stand on a rock of Parna

ought of Cupid nor of Hymen. Her father often said to her, “Daughter, you owe me a son-in-law; you owe me grandchildren.” S

en. Her father often said to her, “Daughter, you owe me a son-in-law; you owe me grandchildren.” She, hating the thought of

as a lamb flies the wolf, or a dove the hawk. It is for love I pursue you . You make me miserable, for fear you should fall

he hawk. It is for love I pursue you. You make me miserable, for fear you should fall and hurt yourself on these stones, an

avished kisses on the wood. The branches shrank from his lips. “Since you cannot be my wife,” said he, “you shall assuredly

anches shrank from his lips. “Since you cannot be my wife,” said he, “ you shall assuredly be my tree. I will wear you for m

ot be my wife,” said he, “you shall assuredly be my tree. I will wear you for my crown; I will decorate with you my harp an

uredly be my tree. I will wear you for my crown; I will decorate with you my harp and my quiver; and when the great Roman c

the great Roman conquerors lead up the triumphal pomp to the Capitol, you shall be woven into wreaths for their brows. And,

be woven into wreaths for their brows. And, as eternal youth is mine, you also shall be always green, and your leaf know no

on that, their breaths would mingle. “Cruel wall,” they said, “why do you keep two lovers apart? But we will not be ungrate

y do you keep two lovers apart? But we will not be ungrateful. We owe you , we confess, the privilege of transmitting loving

, ungrateful mortal, keep your wife, whom, if I am not much mistaken, you will one day be very sorry you ever saw again.” C

wife, whom, if I am not much mistaken, you will one day be very sorry you ever saw again.” Cephalus returned, and was as ha

n they were turned into stone. So lifelike and natural did they look, you would have thought, as you looked at them, that o

ne. So lifelike and natural did they look, you would have thought, as you looked at them, that one was going to bark, the o

self on the green bank, saying, “Come, sweet breeze, come and fan me; you know how I love you! you make the groves and my s

nk, saying, “Come, sweet breeze, come and fan me; you know how I love you ! you make the groves and my solitary rambles deli

aying, “Come, sweet breeze, come and fan me; you know how I love you! you make the groves and my solitary rambles delightfu

feeble eyes, and forced herself to utter these few words: “I implore you , if you have ever loved me, if I have ever deserv

eyes, and forced herself to utter these few words: “I implore you, if you have ever loved me, if I have ever deserved kindn

med, “Alas! my daughter, it would have been a less grief to have lost you altogether!” While he thus lamented, Argus, obser

followed the chase. You would have thought it was Diana herself, had you seen her in her hunting dress, only that her bow

lty and with the sweetness of the music, said, ‘Thus, then, at least, you shall be mine.’ and he took some of the reeds, an

er into a bear. “I will take away,” said she, “that beauty with which you have captivated my husband.” Down fell Callisto o

d in answer to their inquiries thus told the cause of her coming: “Do you ask why I, the queen of the gods, have left the h

ou will hardly believe me; but look when night darkens the world, and you shall see the two of whom I have so much reason t

rmitted Io to do. Perhaps he means to marry her, and put me away! But you , my foster-parents, if you feel for me, and see w

e means to marry her, and put me away! But you, my foster-parents, if you feel for me, and see with displeasure this unwort

ee with displeasure this unworthy treatment of me, show it, I beseech you , by forbidding this guilty couple from coming int

to the face of the intruder, adding these words: “Now go and tell, if you can, that you have seen Diana unapparelled.” Imme

the intruder, adding these words: “Now go and tell, if you can, that you have seen Diana unapparelled.” Immediately a pair

d her thirst in the cool stream, but the rustics forbade her. ‘Why do you refuse me water?’ said she; ‘water is free to all

ater. I come to take my share of the common blessing. Yet I ask it of you as a favor. I have no intention of washing my lim

nectar to me; it would revive me, and I would own myself indebted to you for life itself. Let these infants move your pity

“I call to witness the Sun which looks down upon us, that I have told you the truth. If I speak falsely, let this be the la

Sun rises lies next to ours. Go and demand of him whether he will own you as a son.” Phaëton heard with delight. He travell

uth replied, “O light of the boundless world, Phœbus, my father, — if you permit me to use that name, — give me some proof,

— if you permit me to use that name, — give me some proof, I beseech you , by which I may be known as yours.” He ceased; an

around his head, bade him approach, and embracing him, said, “My son, you deserve not to be disowned, and I confirm what yo

u deserve not to be disowned, and I confirm what your mother has told you . To put an end to your doubts, ask what you will,

what your mother has told you. To put an end to your doubts, ask what you will, the gift shall be yours. I call to witness

spoken rashly,” said he; “this only request I would fain deny. I beg you to withdraw it. It is not a safe boon, nor one, m

y Phaëton, suited to your youth and strength. Your lot is mortal, and you ask what is beyond a mortal’s power. In your igno

ortal, and you ask what is beyond a mortal’s power. In your ignorance you aspire to do that which not even the gods themsel

ry thing else along, should hurry me also away. Suppose I should lend you the chariot, what would you do? Could you keep yo

hurry me also away. Suppose I should lend you the chariot, what would you do? Could you keep your course while the sphere w

away. Suppose I should lend you the chariot, what would you do? Could you keep your course while the sphere was revolving u

u do? Could you keep your course while the sphere was revolving under you ? Perhaps you think that there are forests and cit

ou keep your course while the sphere was revolving under you? Perhaps you think that there are forests and cities, the abod

stretches its arms in one direction and the Crab in another. Nor will you find it easy to guide those horses, with their br

n, lest I be the donor of a fatal gift; recall your request while yet you may. Do you ask me for a proof that you are sprun

the donor of a fatal gift; recall your request while yet you may. Do you ask me for a proof that you are sprung from my bl

recall your request while yet you may. Do you ask me for a proof that you are sprung from my blood? I give you a proof in m

. Do you ask me for a proof that you are sprung from my blood? I give you a proof in my fears for you. Look at my face — I

that you are sprung from my blood? I give you a proof in my fears for you . Look at my face — I would that you could look in

give you a proof in my fears for you. Look at my face — I would that you could look into my breast, you would there see al

or you. Look at my face — I would that you could look into my breast, you would there see all a father’s anxiety. Finally,”

ty. Finally,” he continued, “look round the world and choose whatever you will of what earth or sea contains most precious

contains most precious — ask it and fear no refusal. This only I pray you not to urge. It is not honor, but destruction you

l. This only I pray you not to urge. It is not honor, but destruction you seek. Why do you hang round my neck and still ent

ay you not to urge. It is not honor, but destruction you seek. Why do you hang round my neck and still entreat me? You shal

do you hang round my neck and still entreat me? You shall have it if you persist, — the oath is sworn and must be kept, —

it if you persist, — the oath is sworn and must be kept, — but I beg you to choose more wisely.” He ended; but the youth r

the rays on his head, and, with a foreboding sigh, said, “If, my son, you will in this at least heed my advice, spare the w

e. You will see the marks of the wheels, and they will serve to guide you . And, that the skies and the earth may each recei

e earth may each receive their due share of heat, go not too high, or you will burn the heavenly dwellings, nor too low, or

ot too high, or you will burn the heavenly dwellings, nor too low, or you will set the earth on fire; the middle course is

arth on fire; the middle course is safest and best. 6 And now I leave you to your chance, which I hope will plan better for

And now I leave you to your chance, which I hope will plan better for you than you have done for yourself. Night is passing

leave you to your chance, which I hope will plan better for you than you have done for yourself. Night is passing out of t

can delay no longer. Take the reins; but if at last your heart fails you , and you will benefit by my advice, stay where yo

y no longer. Take the reins; but if at last your heart fails you, and you will benefit by my advice, stay where you are in

t your heart fails you, and you will benefit by my advice, stay where you are in safety, and suffer me to light and warm th

rve such a fate? If neither of us can excite your pity, think, I pray you , of your own heaven, and behold how both the pole

d. He touched a sod; it did the same. He took an apple from the tree; you would have thought he had robbed the garden of th

gods. This inhospitable village shall pay the penalty of its impiety; you alone shall go free from the chastisement. Quit y

worthy of such a husband, speak, tell us your wishes; what favor have you to ask of us?” Philemon took counsel with Baucis

on slower; The flier, though’t had leaden feet, Turned round so quick you scarce could see’t; But slackened by some secret

boy Cupid, espied him, and said, “My son, take your darts with which you conquer all, even Jove himself, and send one into

lone escape? Seize the opportunity to extend your empire and mine. Do you not see that even in heaven some despise our powe

that daughter of Ceres, who threatens to follow their example. Now do you , if you have any regard for your own interest or

ghter of Ceres, who threatens to follow their example. Now do you, if you have any regard for your own interest or mine, jo

r, “Mother,” — and the name was sweet to the ears of Ceres, — “why do you sit here alone upon the rocks?” The old man also

and despise not our humble roof; so may your daughter be restored to you in safety.” “Lead on,” said she, “I cannot resist

round. While they were overcome with astonishment, she said, “Mother, you have been cruel in your fondness to your son. I w

uel in your fondness to your son. I would have made him immortal, but you have frustrated my attempt. Nevertheless, he shal

ertility and clothed with herbage and nourishing grain, no more shall you enjoy my favors.” Then the cattle died, the ploug

it opened unwillingly to yield a passage to your daughter. I can tell you of her fate, for I have seen her. This is not my

ith exercise, when I came to a stream silently flowing, so clear that you might count the pebbles on the bottom. The willow

and made haste to escape to the nearest bank. The voice said, ‘Why do you fly, Arethusa? I am Alpheus, the god of this stre

es. After mutual salutations, he said, “Goddess, I entreat your pity; you alone can relieve the pain I suffer. The power of

to them I owe my change of form. I love Scylla. I am ashamed to tell you how I have sued and promised to her, and how scor

and promised to her, and how scornfully she has treated me. I beseech you to use your incantations, or potent herbs, if the

ions of the sea-green deity, “You had better pursue a willing object; you are worthy to be sought, instead of having to see

to seek in vain. Be not diffident, know your own worth. I protest to you that even I, goddess though I be, and learned in

ed in the virtues of plants and spells, should not know how to refuse you . If she scorns you scorn her; meet one who is rea

f plants and spells, should not know how to refuse you. If she scorns you scorn her; meet one who is ready to meet you half

efuse you. If she scorns you scorn her; meet one who is ready to meet you half way, and thus make a due return to both at o

ar and timidly said, “Ye gods, who can do all things, give me, I pray you , for my wife” — he dared not say “my ivory virgin

ddess in disguise. Farewell, dear husband, and sister, and father. If you retain any love for me, let not the axe wound me,

me, nor the flocks bite and tear my branches. Since I cannot stoop to you , climb up hither and kiss me; and while my lips c

d,” said she; “courage against the courageous is not safe. Beware how you expose yourself to danger and put my happiness to

ible claws and prodigious strength! I hate the whole race of them. Do you ask me why?” Then she told him the story of Atala

e is that love of me that used to be uppermost in your thoughts? Have you learned to feel easy in the absence of Halcyone?

ghts? Have you learned to feel easy in the absence of Halcyone? Would you rather have me away?” She also endeavored to disc

said she, “with such fury that fire flashes from the conflict. But if you must go,” she added, “dear husband, let me go wit

nflict. But if you must go,” she added, “dear husband, let me go with you , otherwise I shall suffer not only the real evils

e go with you, otherwise I shall suffer not only the real evils which you must encounter, but those also which my fears sug

s, tranquillizer of minds and soother of care-worn hearts, Juno sends you her commands that you despatch a dream to Halcyon

nds and soother of care-worn hearts, Juno sends you her commands that you despatch a dream to Halcyone, in the city of Trac

ks. Leaning over the bed, tears streaming from his eyes, he said, “Do you recognize your Ceyx, unhappy wife, or has death t

ship in the Ægean Sea, waves filled my mouth while it called aloud on you . No uncertain messenger tells you this, no vague

d my mouth while it called aloud on you. No uncertain messenger tells you this, no vague rumor brings it to your ears. I co

brings it to your ears. I come in person, a shipwrecked man, to tell you my fate. Arise! give me tears, give me lamentatio

e his body, but grasping only the air. “Stay!” she cried; “whither do you fly? let us go together.” Her own voice awakened

mbling hands towards it, she exclaims, “O dearest husband, is it thus you return to me?” There was built out from the shore

g over the grass. Sometimes he would have an ox-goad in his hand, and you would have said he had just unyoked his weary oxe

f in her hand. She entered the garden and admired the fruit. “It does you credit, my dear,” she said, and kissed her, not e

not twined round the elm, would lie prostrate on the ground. Why will you not take a lesson from the tree and the vine, and

ree and the vine, and consent to unite yourself with some one? I wish you would. Helen herself had not more numerous suitor

umerous suitors, nor Penelope, the wife of shrewd Ulysses. Even while you spurn them, they court you, — rural deities and o

pe, the wife of shrewd Ulysses. Even while you spurn them, they court you , — rural deities and others of every kind that fr

eities and others of every kind that frequent these mountains. But if you are prudent and want to make a good alliance, and

nt and want to make a good alliance, and will let an old woman advise you , — who loves you better than you have any idea of

ke a good alliance, and will let an old woman advise you, — who loves you better than you have any idea of, — dismiss all t

ce, and will let an old woman advise you, — who loves you better than you have any idea of, — dismiss all the rest and acce

of the lovers nowadays, who love any one they happen to see; he loves you , and you only. Add to this, he is young and hands

vers nowadays, who love any one they happen to see; he loves you, and you only. Add to this, he is young and handsome, and

art of assuming any shape he pleases, and can make himself just what you command him. Moreover, he loves the same things t

lf just what you command him. Moreover, he loves the same things that you do, delights in gardening, and handles your apple

will visit such offences sooner or later. To prove this, let me tell you a story, which is well known in Cyprus to be a fa

wn in Cyprus to be a fact; and I hope it will have the effect to make you more merciful. “Iphis was a young man of humble p

nd, standing before her doors, he spake these last words: ‘Anaxarete, you have conquered, and shall no longer have to bear

our triumph! Sing songs of joy, and bind your forehead with laurel, —  you have conquered! I die; stony heart, rejoice! This

uered! I die; stony heart, rejoice! This at least I can do to gratify you and force you to praise me; and thus shall I prov

stony heart, rejoice! This at least I can do to gratify you and force you to praise me; and thus shall I prove that the lov

u and force you to praise me; and thus shall I prove that the love of you left me but with life. Nor will I leave it to rum

ve of you left me but with life. Nor will I leave it to rumor to tell you of my death. I will come myself, and you shall se

I leave it to rumor to tell you of my death. I will come myself, and you shall see me die, and feast your eyes on the spec

me be remembered in coming ages, and add those years to my fame which you have reft from my life.’ Thus he said, and, turni

head into the noose, he murmured, ‘This garland at least will please you , cruel girl!’ and falling hung suspended with his

vain; and by degrees all her limbs became stony like her heart. That you may not doubt the fact, the statue still remains,

doned themselves to grief. But Psyche said, “Why, my dear parents, do you now lament me? You should rather have grieved whe

hough she saw no one, uttering these words: “Sovereign lady, all that you see is yours. We whose voices you hear are your s

se words: “Sovereign lady, all that you see is yours. We whose voices you hear are your servants and shall obey all your co

, therefore, to your chamber and repose on your bed of down, and when you see fit repair to the bath. Supper awaits you in

r bed of down, and when you see fit repair to the bath. Supper awaits you in the adjoining alcove when it pleases you to ta

o the bath. Supper awaits you in the adjoining alcove when it pleases you to take your seat there.” Psyche gave ear to the

his pleasure, for the best of reasons, to keep concealed. “Why should you wish to behold me?” he said; “have you any doubt

to keep concealed. “Why should you wish to behold me?” he said; “have you any doubt of my love? have you any wish ungratifi

you wish to behold me?” he said; “have you any doubt of my love? have you any wish ungratified? If you saw me, perhaps you

id; “have you any doubt of my love? have you any wish ungratified? If you saw me, perhaps you would fear me, perhaps adore

ubt of my love? have you any wish ungratified? If you saw me, perhaps you would fear me, perhaps adore me, but all I ask of

saw me, perhaps you would fear me, perhaps adore me, but all I ask of you is to love me. I would rather you would love me a

perhaps adore me, but all I ask of you is to love me. I would rather you would love me as an equal than adore me as a god.

picions. “Call to mind,” they said, “the Pythian oracle that declared you destined to marry a direful and tremendous monste

that your husband is a terrible and monstrous serpent, who nourishes you for a while with dainties that he may by and by d

nourishes you for a while with dainties that he may by and by devour you . Take our advice. Provide yourself with a lamp an

ped his flight for an instant and said, “O foolish Psyche, is it thus you repay my love? After having disobeyed my mother’s

u repay my love? After having disobeyed my mother’s commands and made you my wife, will you think me a monster and cut off

fter having disobeyed my mother’s commands and made you my wife, will you think me a monster and cut off my head? But go; r

ter and cut off my head? But go; return to your sisters, whose advice you seem to think preferable to mine. I inflict no ot

ou seem to think preferable to mine. I inflict no other punishment on you than to leave you forever. Love cannot dwell with

referable to mine. I inflict no other punishment on you than to leave you forever. Love cannot dwell with suspicion.” So sa

e to her: “O Psyche, truly worthy of our pity, though I cannot shield you from the frowns of Venus, yet I can teach you how

though I cannot shield you from the frowns of Venus, yet I can teach you how best to allay her displeasure. Go, then, and

submission to win her forgiveness, and perhaps her favor will restore you the husband you have lost.” Psyche obeyed the com

n her forgiveness, and perhaps her favor will restore you the husband you have lost.” Psyche obeyed the commands of Ceres a

ountenance. “Most undutiful and faithless of servants,” said she, “do you at last remember that you really have a mistress?

l and faithless of servants,” said she, “do you at last remember that you really have a mistress? Or have you rather come t

he, “do you at last remember that you really have a mistress? Or have you rather come to see your sick husband, yet laid up

oving wife? You are so ill-favored and disagreeable that the only way you can merit your lover must be by dint of industry

putting all of the same kind in a parcel by themselves, and see that you get it done before evening.” Then Venus departed

rk of yours, wicked one, but his, whom to your own and his misfortune you have enticed.” So saying, she threw her a piece o

old yonder grove which stretches along the margin of the water. There you will find sheep feeding without a shepherd, with

he shade, and the serene spirit of the flood has lulled them to rest, you may then cross in safety, and you will find the w

the flood has lulled them to rest, you may then cross in safety, and you will find the woolly gold sticking to the bushes

ss, who said, “I know very well it is by none of your own doings that you have succeeded in this task, and I am not satisfi

that you have succeeded in this task, and I am not satisfied yet that you have any capacity to make yourself useful. But I

ave any capacity to make yourself useful. But I have another task for you . Here, take this box and go your way to the infer

, and give this box to Proserpine and say, ‘My mistress Venus desires you to send her a little of your beauty, for in tendi

bring her back again. But the voice added, “When Proserpine has given you the box filled with her beauty, of all things thi

lled with her beauty, of all things this is chiefly to be observed by you , that you never once open or look into the box no

her beauty, of all things this is chiefly to be observed by you, that you never once open or look into the box nor allow yo

ed by the same curiosity. But now perform exactly the task imposed on you by my mother, and I will take care of the rest.”

ith his bloody jaws, he exclaimed, “O faithful friends, I will avenge you , or share your death.” So saying he lifted a huge

e modern Greeks, he says, — “You have the letters Cadmus gave, Think you he meant them for a slave?” Milton, describing

sed. “I have people enough,” said Æacus, “to protect myself and spare you such a force as you need.” “I rejoice to see it,”

enough,” said Æacus, “to protect myself and spare you such a force as you need.” “I rejoice to see it,” replied Cephalus, “

, and replied with a voice of sadness, “I have been intending to tell you , and will now do so, without more delay, that you

n intending to tell you, and will now do so, without more delay, that you may see how from the saddest beginning a happy re

from the saddest beginning a happy result sometimes flows. Those whom you formerly knew are now dust and ashes! A plague se

oads, the fields, and the woods; the air was poisoned by them, I tell you what is hardly credible, but neither dogs nor bir

strious race, eager to gain, and tenacious of their gains. Among them you may recruit your forces. They will follow you to

their gains. Among them you may recruit your forces. They will follow you to the war, young in years and bold in heart.”  

us addressed him: “I am Scylla, the daughter of Nisus. I surrender to you my country and my father’s house. I ask no reward

ntry and my father’s house. I ask no reward but yourself; for love of you I have done it. See here the purple lock! With th

ove of you I have done it. See here the purple lock! With this I give you my father and his kingdom.” She held out her hand

and. Scylla was frantic. “Ungrateful man,” she exclaimed, “is it thus you leave me? — me who have given you victory, — who

ul man,” she exclaimed, “is it thus you leave me? — me who have given you victory, — who have sacrificed for you parent and

leave me? — me who have given you victory, — who have sacrificed for you parent and country! I am guilty, I confess, and d

hes the old animosity; and whenever he espies her in his lofty flight you may see him dart down upon her, with beak and cla

in these words: “You shall forfeit the use of that tongue with which you have cheated me, except for that one purpose you

at tongue with which you have cheated me, except for that one purpose you are so fond of — reply. You shall still have the

cho answered, “Come.” As no one came, Narcissus called again, “Why do you shun me?” Echo asked the same question. “Let us j

eck. He started back, exclaiming, “Hands off! I would rather die than you should have me!” “Have me,” said she; but it was

image. He talked with the supposed spirit: “Why, beautiful being, do you shun me? Surely my face is not one to repel you.

, beautiful being, do you shun me? Surely my face is not one to repel you . The nymphs love me, and you yourself look not in

n me? Surely my face is not one to repel you. The nymphs love me, and you yourself look not indifferent upon me. When I str

u yourself look not indifferent upon me. When I stretch forth my arms you do the same; and you smile upon me and answer my

ndifferent upon me. When I stretch forth my arms you do the same; and you smile upon me and answer my beckonings with the l

turbed the image. As he saw it depart, he exclaimed, “Stay, I entreat you ! Let me at least gaze upon you, if I may not touc

depart, he exclaimed, “Stay, I entreat you! Let me at least gaze upon you , if I may not touch you.” With this, and much mor

tay, I entreat you! Let me at least gaze upon you, if I may not touch you .” With this, and much more of the same kind, he c

e friendly advice “I have had much experience,” said she, “and I hope you will not despise my counsel. Challenge your fello

ope you will not despise my counsel. Challenge your fellow-mortals as you will, but do not compete with a goddess. On the c

ou will, but do not compete with a goddess. On the contrary, I advise you to ask her forgiveness for what you have said, an

oddess. On the contrary, I advise you to ask her forgiveness for what you have said, and as she is merciful perhaps she wil

or what you have said, and as she is merciful perhaps she will pardon you .” Arachne stopped her spinning and looked at the

aw her suspended by a rope. “Live,” she said, “guilty woman! and that you may preserve the memory of this lesson, continue

at you may preserve the memory of this lesson, continue to hang, both you and your descendants, to all future times.” She s

ghty looks. “What folly,” said she, “is this! — to prefer beings whom you never saw to those who stand before your eyes! Wh

f pretensions worthy of my alliance. Have I not cause for pride? Will you prefer to me this Latona, the Titan’s daughter, w

should hardly be left as poor as Latona with her two only. Away with you from these solemnities, — put off the laurel from

essed her son and daughter: “My children, I who have been so proud of you both, and have been used to hold myself second to

indeed a goddess. I shall be deprived of my worship altogether unless you protect me.” She was proceeding in this strain, b

. Yet where is your triumph? Bereaved as I am, I am still richer than you , my conqueror.” Scarce had she spoken, when the b

f hid with golden leaves. Perseus said to him, “I come as a guest. If you honor illustrious descent, I claim Jupiter for my

one! or neither your false claims of glory or parentage shall protect you ;” and he attempted to thrust him out. Perseus, fi

him out. Perseus, finding the giant too strong for him, said, “Since you value my friendship so little, deign to accept a

, but rather of such as bind fond lovers together, tell me, I beseech you , your name, and the name of your country, and why

l me, I beseech you, your name, and the name of your country, and why you are thus bound.” At first she was silent from mod

me but my life.” “Base coward,” said Perseus, “thus much I will grant you ; no weapon shall touch you; moreover, you shall b

rd,” said Perseus, “thus much I will grant you; no weapon shall touch you ; moreover, you shall be preserved in my house as

us, “thus much I will grant you; no weapon shall touch you; moreover, you shall be preserved in my house as a memorial of t

pons. He, starting from his sleep, cried out, “My daughters, what are you doing? Will you kill your father?” Their hearts f

ng from his sleep, cried out, “My daughters, what are you doing? Will you kill your father?” Their hearts failed them and t

” etc Macbeth, Act IV. Scene 1. And again: — Macbeth. — What is’t you do? Witches. — A deed without a name. There is

m. But shall he then live, and triumph, and reign over Calydon, while you , my brothers, wander unavenged among the shades?

anta. The innocent cause of so much sorrow was a maiden whose face you might truly say was boyish for a girl, yet too gi

changed his mind, and said, “Pardon me, youths, I knew not the prize you were competing for.” As he surveyed them he wishe

re. Then Hippomenes addressed a prayer to Venus: “Help me, Venus, for you have led me on.” Venus heard and was propitious.

h starts from the goal and skims over the sand. So light their tread, you would almost have thought they might run over the

ectators cheered Hippomenes, — “Now, now, do your best! haste, haste! you gain on her! relax not! one more effort!” It was

oble deeds, yet it is not the less gratifying to me. But now I say to you , Fear not. He who conquered all else is not to be

e who conquered all else is not to be conquered by those flames which you see blazing on Mount Œta. Only his mother’s share

all take him, dead to earth, to the heavenly shores, and I require of you all to receive him kindly. If any of you feel gri

nly shores, and I require of you all to receive him kindly. If any of you feel grieved at his attaining this honor, yet no

. When all was prepared for flight he said, “Icarus, my son, I charge you to keep at a moderate height, for if you fly too

d, “Icarus, my son, I charge you to keep at a moderate height, for if you fly too low the damp will clog your wings, and if

your wings, and if too high the heat will melt them. Keep near me and you will be safe.” While he gave him these instructio

was called by his name. His father cried, “Icarus, Icarus, where are you ?” At last he saw the feathers floating on the wat

ng. Pentheus, beholding him with wrathful countenance, said, “Fellow! you shall speedily be put to death, that your fate ma

but though I grudge the delay of your punishment, speak, tell us who you are, and what are these new rites you presume to

punishment, speak, tell us who you are, and what are these new rites you presume to celebrate.” The prisoner, unterrified,

certainly is. Pardon us, gentle deity, for the violence we have done you , and give success to our undertakings.’ Dictys, o

by such impiety,’ said I. ‘I have a greater share in her than any of you .’ But Lycabas, a turbulent fellow, seized me by t

was indeed he) as if shaking off his drowsiness exclaimed, ‘What are you doing with me? What is this fighting about? Who b

with me? What is this fighting about? Who brought me here? Where are you going to carry me?’ One of them replied, ‘Fear no

going to carry me?’ One of them replied, ‘Fear nothing; tell us where you wish to go and we will take you there.’ ‘Naxos is

replied, ‘Fear nothing; tell us where you wish to go and we will take you there.’ ‘Naxos is my home,’ said Bacchus; ‘take m

take you there.’ ‘Naxos is my home,’ said Bacchus; ‘take me there and you shall be well rewarded.’ They promised so to do,

nd one of them, exclaiming, ‘Don’t flatter yourself that we depend on you for our safety;’ took any place as pilot, and bor

ea and said in a voice of weeping, ‘Sailors, these are not the shores you promised to take me to; yonder island is not my h

ed to take me to; yonder island is not my home. What have I done that you should treat me so? It is small glory you will ga

home. What have I done that you should treat me so? It is small glory you will gain by cheating a poor boy.’ I wept to hear

imen: — “By your beauty which confesses Some chief Beauty conquering you , By our grand heroic guesses Through your falseho

is tree am a nymph beloved of Ceres, and dying by your hands forewarn you that punishment awaits you.” He desisted not from

of Ceres, and dying by your hands forewarn you that punishment awaits you .” He desisted not from his crime, and at last the

ke my chariot. The dragons are fleet and obey the rein, and will take you through the air in a short time.” So she gave her

t now, with hair dishevelled and in humble garb, standing about where you stand? Tell me truly; so may your luck be good an

eager lips And trembling hands the languid thirsty quaff New life in you ; fresh vigor fills their veins. No warmer cups th

hought of the greatness of my conqueror, for it was Hercules. Perhaps you have heard of the fame of Dejanira, the fairest o

ge. ‘My hand will answer better than my tongue,’ said he. ‘I yield to you the victory in words, but trust my cause to the s

succeeded, brought me to the ground, and himself upon my back. I tell you the truth, it was as if a mountain had fallen on

e earth, and, if old traditions say true, not less so here. I implore you by these abodes full of terror, these realms of s

gs, unite again the thread of Eurydice’s life. We all are destined to you and sooner or later must pass to your domain. She

life, will rightly be yours. But till then grant her to me, I beseech you . If you deny me I cannot return alone; you shall

ll rightly be yours. But till then grant her to me, I beseech you. If you deny me I cannot return alone; you shall triumph

grant her to me, I beseech you. If you deny me I cannot return alone; you shall triumph in the death of us both.” As he san

lost my precious bees. My care and skill have availed me nothing, and you my mother have not warded off from me the blow of

ed sage and knows all things, past, present, and to come. He can tell you , my son, the cause of the mortality among your be

tell you, my son, the cause of the mortality among your bees, and how you may remedy it. But he will not do it voluntarily,

and how you may remedy it. But he will not do it voluntarily, however you may entreat him. You must compel him by force. If

tarily, however you may entreat him. You must compel him by force. If you seize him and chain him, he will answer your ques

s in order to get released, for he cannot by all his arts get away if you hold fast the chains. I will carry you to his cav

ot by all his arts get away if you hold fast the chains. I will carry you to his cave, where he comes at noon to take his m

u to his cave, where he comes at noon to take his midday repose. Then you may easily secure him. But when he finds himself

ise like the crackling of flames or the rush of water, so as to tempt you to let go the chain, when he will make his escape

s to tempt you to let go the chain, when he will make his escape. But you have only to keep him fast bound, and at last whe

sumed his own form and addressed the youth in angry accents: “Who are you , bold youth, who thus invade my abode, and what d

ents: “Who are you, bold youth, who thus invade my abode, and what do you want of me?” Aristæus replied, “Proteus, you know

de my abode, and what do you want of me?” Aristæus replied, “Proteus, you know already, for it is needless for any one to a

ou know already, for it is needless for any one to attempt to deceive you . And do you also cease your efforts to elude me.

ady, for it is needless for any one to attempt to deceive you. And do you also cease your efforts to elude me. I am led hit

forts to elude me. I am led hither by divine assistance, to know from you the cause of my misfortune and how to remedy it.”

rd of your deeds, by which Eurydice met her death, for in flying from you she trod upon a serpent, of whose bite she died.

, leaving their carcasses in the leafy grove. To Orpheus and Eurydice you shall pay such funeral honors as may allay their

eral honors as may allay their resentment. Returning after nine days, you will examine the bodies of the cattle slain and s

nd fair. “O Periander,” he exclaimed, “dismiss your fears! Soon shall you forget them in my embrace. With what lavish offer

. Presently they surrounded him loud and mutinous, and said, “ Arion, you must die! If you would have a grave on shore, yie

surrounded him loud and mutinous, and said, “ Arion, you must die! If you would have a grave on shore, yield yourself to di

but if otherwise, cast yourself into the sea.” “Will nothing satisfy you but my life?” said he. “Take my gold, and welcome

ome. I willingly buy my life at that price.” “No, no; we cannot spare you . Your life would be too dangerous to us. Where co

s. Where could we go to escape from Periander, if he should know that you had been robbed by us? Your gold would be of litt

vain is power lodged in my hands. That we may discover the criminals, you must remain here in concealment, and so they will

hip arrived in the harbor, he summoned the mariners before him. “Have you heard any thing of Arion?” he inquired. “I anxiou

, the master of the lay! Kind Heaven protects the poet’s life. As for you , I invoke not the spirit of vengeance; Arion wish

urse as himself in their migration to a southern clime. “Good luck to you , ye friendly squadrons,” he exclaimed, “my compan

friend in Corinth who had expected him as a guest. “Is it thus I find you restored to me?” he exclaimed. “I who hoped to en

aiden, your persecutors are of the not ungentle race of men, whom, if you will, you can repel; but I, the daughter of Nereu

r persecutors are of the not ungentle race of men, whom, if you will, you can repel; but I, the daughter of Nereus, and pro

ch as I sought his society, so much did the Cyclops seek mine; and if you ask me whether my love for Acis or my hatred of P

e for Acis or my hatred of Polyphemus was the stronger, I cannot tell you ; they were in equal measure. O Venus, how great i

udden he came to a spot which gave him a view of us as we sat. ‘I see you ,’ he exclaimed, ‘and I will make this the last of

which Achilles replied, “Dog, name not ransom nor pity to me, on whom you have brought such dire distress. No! trust me, na

he priest of Neptune exclaims, “What madness, citizens, is this? Have you not learned enough of Grecian fraud to be on your

hers were maturing. The vineyard was equally prolific. In one quarter you might see the vines, some in blossom, some loaded

, perched on a neighboring cliff, screamed out, “Is it thus, Trojans, you treat us innocent birds, first slaughter our catt

h of the deities. “Now,” said the Sibyl, “summon up your courage, for you will need it.” She descended into the cave, and Æ

r in the accents of love. “Unhappy Dido! was then the rumor true that you had perished? and was I, alas! the cause? I call

I, alas! the cause? I call the gods to witness that my departure from you was reluctant, and in obedience to the commands o

the commands of Jove; nor could I believe that my absence would cost you so dear. Stop, I beseech you, and refuse me not a

uld I believe that my absence would cost you so dear. Stop, I beseech you , and refuse me not a last farewell.” She stood fo

he stretched out both hands to him, while tears flowed freely. “Have you come at last,” said he, “long expected, and do I

ly. “Have you come at last,” said he, “long expected, and do I behold you after such perils past? O my son, how have I trem

behold you after such perils past? O my son, how have I trembled for you as I have watched your career!” To which Æneas re

hus addressed Diana: “Goddess of the woods! I consecrate this maid to you ;” then hurled the weapon with its burden to the o

e, here shall terminate the hostility of the heavenly powers, if only you faithfully persevere. There are friends not far d

not far distant. Prepare your boats and row up my stream; I will lead you to Evander, the Arcadian chief, he has long been

f yours. Rise! offer your vows to Juno, and deprecate her anger. When you have achieved your victory then think of me.” Æne

, holding forth an olive-branch, replied, “We are Trojans, friends to you , and enemies to the Rutulians. We seek Evander, a

de by the river, on the other by the Rutulians. But I propose to ally you with a people numerous and rich, to whom fate has

to ally you with a people numerous and rich, to whom fate has brought you at the propitious moment. The Etruscans hold the

e gods, have but to appear to be hailed at once as their leader. With you I will join Pallas, my son, my only hope and comf

With you I will join Pallas, my son, my only hope and comfort. Under you he shall learn the art of war, and strive to emul

two were friends and brothers in arms. Nisus said to his friend, “Do you perceive what confidence and carelessness the ene

if they judge the service deserves any thing more, let them pay it to you .” Euryalus, all on fire with the love of adventur

u.” Euryalus, all on fire with the love of adventure, replied, “Would you , then, Nisus, refuse to share your enterprise wit

then, Nisus, refuse to share your enterprise with me? and shall I let you go into such danger alone? Not so my brave father

omparison with honor.” Nisus replied, “I doubt it not, my friend; but you know the uncertain event of such an undertaking,

n event of such an undertaking, and whatever may happen to me, I wish you to be safe. You are younger than I and have more

such grief to your mother, who has chosen to be here in the camp with you rather than stay and live in peace with the other

er matrons in Acestes’ city.” Euryalus replied, “Say no more. In vain you seek arguments to dissuade me. I am fixed in the

eek arguments to dissuade me. I am fixed in the resolution to go with you . Let us lose no time.” They called the guard, and

ar her tears nor set at nought her entreaties. But do thou, I beseech you , comfort her in her distress. Promise me that and

r mother shall be mine,” said Iulus, “and all that I have promised to you shall be made good to her, if you do not return t

s, “and all that I have promised to you shall be made good to her, if you do not return to receive it.” The two friends lef

s bent over him in pity. “Hapless youth,” he said, “what can I do for you worthy of your praise? Keep those arms in which y

what can I do for you worthy of your praise? Keep those arms in which you glory, and fear not but that your body shall be r

the love of kindred is not extinct in your bosoms, forbear, I entreat you , to violate the life of those who may haply be yo

ng me with caresses, spoke these words: ‘My dear child, I do not give you that blow for any fault you have committed, but t

hese words: ‘My dear child, I do not give you that blow for any fault you have committed, but that you may recollect that t

do not give you that blow for any fault you have committed, but that you may recollect that the little creature you see in

u have committed, but that you may recollect that the little creature you see in the fire is a salamander; such a one as ne

Thor? Me thinks it is time for us to get up and dress ourselves; but you have not now a long way before you to the city ca

to get up and dress ourselves; but you have not now a long way before you to the city called Utgard. I have heard you whisp

not now a long way before you to the city called Utgard. I have heard you whispering to one another that I am not a man of

pering to one another that I am not a man of small dimensions; but if you come to Utgard you will see there many men much t

er that I am not a man of small dimensions; but if you come to Utgard you will see there many men much taller than I. Where

d you will see there many men much taller than I. Wherefore, I advise you , when you come there, not to make too much of you

see there many men much taller than I. Wherefore, I advise you, when you come there, not to make too much of yourselves, f

of Utgard-Loki will not brook the boasting of such little fellows as you are. You must take the road that leads eastward,

ur men.” “Little as ye call me,” answered Thor, “let me see who among you will come hither now I am in wrath and wrestle wi

e by thy mallet. I have made use of similar illusions in the contests you have had with my followers. In the first, Loki, l

ly translated from Ovid. 9. Sir James Mackintosh says of this, “Do you think that even a Chinese could paint the gay col

of the vast universe? These flowers, whose varied and shining beauty you so much admire, are the tears of Aurora. It is th

ss as our mother night.     Pro. I laugh your power, and his who sent you here, To lowest scorn. Pour forth the cup of pain

lf’s rule, The torturing and conflicting throes within, As Jove rules you when hell grows mutinous.” Shelley. This provok

Some marks of honour on my son bestow, And pay in glory what in life you owe. Fame is at least by heavenly promise due, To

our hearts to charitable love: They (as by chance they did) extend to you Their little hands, and my request pursue!’ Yet t

as suppressed; Bent on revenge, the Goddess stood confessed! ‘And may you live,’ she passionately cried, ‘Doomed in that po

g waves surveyed, And seemed to weep, and as he wept he said, ‘And do you thus my easy faith beguile? Thus, do you bear me

as he wept he said, ‘And do you thus my easy faith beguile? Thus, do you bear me to my native isle? Will such a multitude

ed lyre; I hail thee the patron of craft and of guile, To laugh while you grieve, to deceive while you smile, When you chaf

on of craft and of guile, To laugh while you grieve, to deceive while you smile, When you chafed into wrath bright Apollo o

of guile, To laugh while you grieve, to deceive while you smile, When you chafed into wrath bright Apollo of old, His dun-c

g companions gone, And for some time Narcissus left alone, ‘Where are you all?’ at last she hears him call, And she straigh

at last she hears him call, And she straight answers him, ‘where are you all?’ “‘Speak yet again,’ he cries, ‘is any nigh

s, ‘is any nigh?’ Again the mournful Echo answers, ‘I,’ ‘Why come not you ,’ he said, ‘appear in view,’ She hastily returns,

t you,’ he said, ‘appear in view,’ She hastily returns, ‘why come not you ?’ “‘Then let us join,’ at last Narcissus said, ‘

feeble hold; Then proudly cries, ‘life shall this breast forsake, Ere you , loose nymph, on me your pleasure take;’ ‘On me y

s, And all that did there attendant follow, Were silent with love, as you now, Apollo,                      With envy of my

recommended himself and his virtues to Pomona. “On my assurance well you may repose, Vertumnus scarce Vertumnus better kno

d on death since ye met me last! I know whence the shadow comes o’er you now, Ye have strewn the dust on the sunny brow! Y

heir laughing eyes and their festal crown, They are gone from amongst you in silence down! The Summer is coming, on soft w

ked by care, ye are mine no more, I go where the loved, who have left you , dwell, And the flowers are not death’s — farewel

ng lover said, ‘No more in anxious thoughts your mind employ, For yet you shall possess the dear, expected joy, You must on

at ye do,     That call the slumberers back, From the world unseen by you     Unto life’s dim faded track. Her soul is far

wall I hang the silent harp: one song more! Penates! hear me! for to you I hymn The votive lay. Venerable powers! Hearken

stranged, and exiled from your altars long, I have not ceased to love you , Household Gods! O ye whom youth has ‘wildered on

taking Some loose flowers of Love’s own making; ‘Here are good ones, you may trust ‘em,’ (These, of course, found ready cu

fate to ignorance, but love: Your life I’ll guard, and only crave of you To swear once more — and to your oath be true.’ H

lth are in your hand, And can ye thus, like idle gazers stand? Unless you are of common sense bereft, If yet one spark of p

uiltless babes shall fall! ………………………………………………………… When o’er each babe you look a last adieu,     And gaze on Innocence that

our frantic mind so black a crime conceive? Are these the thanks that you to Perseus give? This the reward that to his wort

he thanks that you to Perseus give? This the reward that to his worth you pay, Whose timely valour saved Andromeda? Nor was

worth you pay, Whose timely valour saved Andromeda? Nor was it he, if you would reason right, That forced her from you, but

omeda? Nor was it he, if you would reason right, That forced her from you , but the jealous spite Of envious Nereids, and Jo

my afflictions; not content to view Andromeda in chains, unhelped by you , Her spouse and uncle, will you grieve that he Ex

view Andromeda in chains, unhelped by you, Her spouse and uncle, will you grieve that he Exposed his life, the dying maid t

ou grieve that he Exposed his life, the dying maid to free? And shall you claim his merit? Had you thought Her charms so gr

his life, the dying maid to free? And shall you claim his merit? Had you thought Her charms so great, you should have brav

? And shall you claim his merit? Had you thought Her charms so great, you should have bravely sought, That blessing on the

nd less, Like hope diminishing, till wholly past. I will not say, for you can fancy well, Her desolate feelings as she roam

anonyme_heathen-mythology_1842_img203     Phæ. “‘My lord, ’tis said you soon will part from us.     Hip. Madam!     Phæ.

’tis said you soon will part from us.     Hip. Madam!     Phæ. I pray you do not leave us!     Hip. My duty, lady! —     Ph

   Phæ. Would that that duty, were in pleasing me;     Hip. To please you , lady, were my highest wish, To gain your love, m

d given a fever to my very looks.     Hip. Madam! I do not understand you ;     Phæ. You must! fierce, burning love is mine,

understand you;     Phæ. You must! fierce, burning love is mine, For you , Hippolytus, the son of Theseus!     Hip. And you

g love is mine, For you, Hippolytus, the son of Theseus!     Hip. And you his wife?     Phæ. Aye, boy, ’tis even so; Nay, l

ore, that he was the husband of his own mother. Œdipus. “‘Why speak you not according to my charge? Bring forth the rack,

cording to my charge? Bring forth the rack, since mildness cannot win you Torment shall force. Phorbas. Hold, hold, Oh! dr

not rack an innocent man. ‌ Œd. Speak, then. Phor. Alas! what would you have me say? Œd. Did this old man take from your

way — Phor.                                By the gods, I do conjure you to enquire no more. Œd. Furies and Hell! Hæmon b

ld. Phor. The Queen, Jocasta told me It was her son by Laius. Œd. O you gods — break, break not yet my heart, Though my e

Should kill his father, and enjoy his mother. Œd. ’Tis well! I thank you gods! ’tis wondrous well! Dagger and poison — O t

ous well! Dagger and poison — O there is no need For my dispatch; and you , ye merciless powers, Hoard up your thunder stone

aks through opposition. How fares my royal friend? Œd. The worse for you . O barbarous men, and oh! the hated light, What d

The worse for you. O barbarous men, and oh! the hated light, What did you force me back to curse the day, To curse my frien

rcling air? To raise new plagues and call new vengeance down, Why did you tempt the gods, and dare to touch me? Methinks th

ould run up like flax, all blazing fire. Stand from this spot, I wish you as my friends, And come not near me, lest the gap

ou as my friends, And come not near me, lest the gaping earth Swallow you too.’” Sophocles. ‌In the depth of his anguish

Cries out, in transports of a cruel mind, ‘Within yourself, your Itys you may find.’ ‌Still at this puzzling answer with s

escribed: — “Iphigenia. Father! I now may lean upon your breast, And you with unreverted eyes will grasp Iphigenia’s hand.

Tell how my mother fares who loved me so, And grieved, as ‘twere for you , to see me part. Frown not, but pardon me for tar

her with the Gods and all their laws. Iphig. Father! we must not let you here condemn; Not, were the day less joyful: reco

efore he heard the voice that marshal’d Greece. Therefore all praised you .                 Proudest men themselves In other

, and most Admire it in the sceptre and the sword. What then can make you speak thus rapidly And briefly? in your step thus

e you speak thus rapidly And briefly? in your step thus hesitate? Are you afraid to meet among the good Incestuous Helen he

han those Of Argos and Mycenai — come away, And I will weave them for you on the bank. You will not look so pale when you h

I will weave them for you on the bank. You will not look so pale when you have walked A little in the grove, and have told

urn away? Calling me with such fondness! I am here, Father! and where you are, will ever be. Aga. Thou art my child — yes,

t once, and let me be unblest; But, O my faultless father! why should you ? And shun so my embraces?                 Am I wi

oach. Look on me; smile with me at my illusion — You are so like what you have ever been (Except in sorrow!) I might well f

ave ever been (Except in sorrow!) I might well forget I could not win you as I used to do. It was the first embrace since m

summer nights Noises were heard, and plaintive music like, The songs you hear in Sicily — shepherd swains For many an age

Martha Bradstreet, of New York. Respected Madam, In dedicating to you a work for which I conceive it difficult to find,

in which superior mental endowments and an ample fortune have placed you , that amiable deportment, gentleness and affabili

evered virtues which enlighten and enliven the female circle in which you preside. Allow me to believe, My Dear Madam, that

youthful ardour into a public avowal of that esteem and affection for you which will always be cherished by Your much oblig

serve the Greeks, and after them, the Romans, for their religion? As you have informed me that their system of mythology w

tive servants’ jests.” Ausonius. Questions. Who was Saturn? What do you farther learn concerning him? Did Saturn fulfil t

y implore? Because I hold the door, by which access Is had to any god you would address.” Ovid. “Two gates of steel (the

ains, the ripened grain to reap, Till crown’d with oak in antic dance you leap, Invoking Ceres; and in solemn lays, Exalt y

, he asked how he came there. One of the crew replied: “Tell us where you wish to be, and thither we will conduct you.” — 

w replied: “Tell us where you wish to be, and thither we will conduct you .” —  “Naxos,” replied the god “is my home.” Bacch

of Pyramus and Thisbe. Favour me with the story of Pygmalion. What do you know respecting Atalanta? Did the example of thos

ed, and were unknown to the Greeks. Questions. Who was Pales? What do you know of Anna Perenna? What goddess watched over t

iple jaws made all these realms resound’.” “Hell’s grisly porter let you pass, . And frown’d and litter’d to your lays; Th

ard, does stand chin deep In water, yet he cannot get a sip: At which you smile; now all of’t would be true, Were the name

w all of’t would be true, Were the name chang’d, and the tale told of you .” Obs. — The learned do not agree with respect

eed with your narrative of the Gorgons. What was the Chimæra? What do you know of the Sphinx? Give the history of Œdipus.

Felicity? What is said of Hope? What is related of Eternity? What do you observe of Time? What is said of Virtue? What do

ternity? What do you observe of Time? What is said of Virtue? What do you say of Truth? What were the different provinces o

at were the different provinces of Concordia, Pax, and Fides? What do you say of Liberty? How is Licentiousness represented

polis? Had Apis any temples or stables? Describe his oracle? Will not you tell me an anecdote of Cambyses’ visit to Egypt?

ill not you tell me an anecdote of Cambyses’ visit to Egypt? What do you know of Typhon? What story is related of Horus? W

u? What is said of the Hindoo Rama? What is said of Chrishna? What do you know of the Avatars? How are the Avatars represen

ike, flee a way opened up to the blissful regions. Questions. What do you observe of the Mexican deities? Who was Tez-cat-l

t: “I shall raise upon four pillars a temple, which may well astonish you .” It was at that time he conceived the plan of th

ich became fatal to her. She said to the Bœotians who consulted her: “ you will be victors if you act impiously.” The envoys

. She said to the Bœotians who consulted her: “you will be victors if you act impiously.” The envoys seized on her, and cau

e inhabitant of the continent, and he who dwells near the sea; and if you even proceed to the utmost shores of the ocean, t

ndering in many a coral grove, Fair Nine, forsaking Poetry; How have you left the ancient love That bards of old enjoyed i

try; How have you left the ancient love That bards of old enjoyed in you ! The languid strings do scarcely move, The sound

pure and brave. “Now, therefore, in nearly every myth of importance… you have to discern these three structural parts — th

nation of that, becoming a trusted and companionable deity, with whom you may walk hand in hand, as a child with its brothe

rom the temple with head veiled and garments unbound, and cast behind you the bones of your mother.” They heard the words w

ty, and with the sweetness of the music, said, ‘Thus, then, at least, you shall be mine.’ Taking some of the reeds, of uneq

o. Perhaps my husband means to take her to wife, and put me away! But you , my foster-parents, if you feel for me, and see w

to take her to wife, and put me away! But you, my foster-parents, if you feel for me, and see with displeasure this unwort

ee with displeasure this unworthy treatment of me, show it, I beseech you , by forbidding this guilty couple from coming int

, and regard me as it had been her own child! Ye blessed gods, I pray you , prosper the fulfilment of the dream!” Therewith

gods. This inhospitable village shall pay the penalty of its impiety; you alone shall go free from the chastisement. Quit y

worthy of such a husband, speak, tell us your wishes. What favor have you to ask of us?” Philemon took counsel with Baucis

on slower; The flier, though’t had leaden feet, Turned round so quick you scarce could see’t; But slackened by some secret

d her thirst in the cool stream, but the rustics forbade her. “Why do you refuse me water?” said she. “Water is free to all

ou refuse me water?” said she. “Water is free to all. Yet I ask it of you as a favor. I have no intention of washing my lim

ht of water would be nectar to me, and I would own myself indebted to you for life itself. Let these infants move your pity

ebes with haughty glance, she said, “What folly to prefer beings whom you have never seen to those who stand before your ey

gs whom you have never seen to those who stand before your eyes! Will you prefer to me this Latona, the Titan’s daughter, w

essed her son and daughter: “My children, I who have been so proud of you both, and have been used to hold myself second to

indeed a goddess. I shall be deprived of my worship altogether unless you protect me.” She was proceeding in this strain, b

e two might go together, live and die. Beside, when he found speech, you guess the speech. He could not think he saw his w

es, And all that did then attend and follow Were silent with love, as you now, Apollo, With envy of my sweet pipings. I sa

h exercise, she descended to a stream silently flowing, so clear that you might count the pebbles on the bottom. She laid a

the water into the face of the intruder, saying, “Now go and tell, if you can, that you have seen Diana unapparelled.” Imme

the face of the intruder, saying, “Now go and tell, if you can, that you have seen Diana unapparelled.” Immediately a pair

touched a sod, with the same result. He took an apple from the tree; you would have thought he had robbed the garden of th

nzas: — “By your beauty which confesses Some chief Beauty conquering you , By our grand heroic guesses Through your falseho

His club-feet, cased in rusty shoes, Were cross’d, as on some frieze you see them, And trousers, patch’d of divers hues, C

scorners, learn this lesson true: Be kind to love, that he be kind to you . § 120. The Naiads guarded streams and fountains

Starting from his sleep, the old man cried out, “My daughters, would you kill your father?” Whereat their hearts failed th

what oracles fall from the Sisters Chanting the fates for thee; — but you , ye destiny-drawing Spindles, hasten the threads

indles, and run, yea, gallop, ye thread-running spindles! “Born unto you shall be the undaunted heart of Achilles, Aye, by

which Achilles replied, “Dog, name not ransom nor pity to me, on whom you have brought such dire distress. No! trust me; no

priest of Neptune, exclaimed, “What madness, citizens, is this! Have you not learned enough of Grecian fraud to be on your

e thunder and the sunshine, and opposed Free hearts, free foreheads — you and I are old; Old age hath yet his honor and his

, holding forth an olive-branch, replied, “We are Trojans, friends to you and enemies to the Rutulians. We seek Evander and

, Thor? Methinks it is time for us to get up and dress ourselves; but you have not now a long way before you to the city ca

to get up and dress ourselves; but you have not now a long way before you to the city called Utgard. I have heard you whisp

not now a long way before you to the city called Utgard. I have heard you whispering to one another that I am not a man of

pering to one another that I am not a man of small dimensions; but if you come to Utgard you will see there many men much t

er that I am not a man of small dimensions; but if you come to Utgard you will see there many men much taller than I. Where

rd you will see there many men much taller than I. Wherefore I advise you , when you come there, not to make too much of you

l see there many men much taller than I. Wherefore I advise you, when you come there, not to make too much of yourselves, f

of Utgard-Loki will not brook the boasting of such little fellows as you are. You must take the road that leads eastward,

men.” “Little as ye call me,” answered Thor, “let me see who among you will come hither now I am in wrath and wrestle wi

t the burg of heaven uprose for man-folks weal. Now let the man among you whose heart and hand may shift To pluck it from t

k, O Volsung Sons be wise, And reap the battle-acre that ripening for you lies: For they told me in the wild wood, I heard

d a prominent part among the associates of King Etzel. “I cannot say you now what hath befallen since; The women all were

” See Byron, Don Juan 3: 86, “You have the letters Cadmus gave; Think you he meant them for a slave?” § 71. Textual. — Eur

it may be useful, this book of Mythology is affectionately offered to you , by your friend, THE AUTHOR. Preface. This

tells his son, My father told me that he planted yonder tree, I tell you that he did so; when you shall have a son, tell h

told me that he planted yonder tree, I tell you that he did so; when you shall have a son, tell him that your grandfather

ains, the ripened grain to reap, Till crowned with oak in antic dance you leap. Invoking Ceres; and in solemn lays. Exalt y

eus, “belonged to your father, who is Ægeus, King of Athens; whenever you shall present it to him, he will remember that it

l remember that it was left in my possession, and he will acknowledge you as his son. Depart, but do not venture the perils

ut do not venture the perils of a land journey; robbers will surprise you , and you will be cut off by their cruel hands; a

venture the perils of a land journey; robbers will surprise you, and you will be cut off by their cruel hands; a sea voyag

be cut off by their cruel hands; a sea voyage is safe and short, and you will soon reach Athens.” The aged Pittheus joined

appeal but Diomed. ——————— “Untaught to fear Tydides spoke — The man you seek is here. To yon black camps to bend my dange

hose about him, said: “Whom ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you ,” etc. When he preached to them concerning Jesus

, he says, in the name of God, “Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you , and ye shall be clean; from all your filthiness,

ean; from all your filthiness, and from all your idols will I cleanse you .” When Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, again

eks need my services ever so much, I will never again unite myself to you , Agamemnon, in their defence. After this explanat

always open in time of war, and closed during peace. “Old Janus, if you please, Grave two-faced father.” “In two-faced

Phœbus]. A name of Apollo, signifying light and life. “Gallop apace, you fiery-footed steeds, Toward Phœbus’ lodging.” Sh

ge and the palace gate. ……………………………………………… Night soon will seize, and you must go below, To story’d ghosts and Pluto’s hous

as better, Pylades, than thine.                                  … If you please To choose me for your Pylades.” F. Lewis.

unknown god. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you . God that made the world and all things therein,

pity upon us! Free us from this gloomy prison! Open, open, we beseech you !” Pandora’s heart beat so fast and loud, that it

art from hence with veiled heads, and cast your mothers’ bones behind you !” To obey such a command seemed sacrilegious in t

hurt thee, or some thorn may wound. “You fly, alas! not knowing whom you fly; No ill-bred swain, nor rustic clown, am I.”

d fire, ‘To prove your reviler an infamous liar, I swear I will grant you whate’er you desire!’” Saxe. This oath was the

rove your reviler an infamous liar, I swear I will grant you whate’er you desire!’” Saxe. This oath was the most solemn a

Only decline this one unequal task, For ‘tis a mischief, not a gift, you ask.” Addison. But Phaeton, who, like many anot

upon her ear “But her voice is still living immortal, —     The same you have frequently heard In your rambles in valleys

    A strain of unpremeditated wit, Joyous and wild and wanton — such you may     Hear among revellers on a holiday.” Shel

get out again if one were rash enough to venture in. “To the shades you go a down-hill, easy way; But to return and re-en

ings which she pointed out.                             “‘I bring to you The mighty bow that great Ulysses bore. Whoe’er a

‘I bring to you The mighty bow that great Ulysses bore. Whoe’er among you he may be whose hand Shall bend this bow, and sen

beautiful buildings which had been the king’s pride and delight. Now you shall hear Virgil’s story of the escape of some o

and great, The city’s walls, which Heaven has willed Beyond the seas you yet shall build.’” Virgil ( Conington’s tr.). A

Where first your nation sprang to birth, That realm shall now receive you back: Go, seek your ancient mother’s track. There

s long survived its original form as a conscious prayer, “God be with you !” and the word “ostracism” has lost all connectio

is god actions in the last degree base and criminal. Ques. How would you explain this seeming contradiction? Ans. Many of

times a band over his eyes to show that love is blind. Ques. What do you say of the festivals of Venus? Ans. They were va

This explanation is, however, far fetched and improbable. Ques. Can you name any works of Vulcan, beside those already me

slow; The slower is its pace, the surer is its blow.” Ques. What do you say of the temple of Nemesis at Rhamnus? Ans. Th

de the ancients very careful about burying their dead. Ques. What do you say of the rivers of Hell? Ans. The Styx was the

ith regard to these Oracles — Quotation from Milton. Ques. What do you understand by oracles? Ans. The places where the

r neglected lies, Where to her dogs aspiring temples rise! And should you leeks or onions eat, no time Would expiate the sa

e world, destroying the wicked and rewarding the good. Ques. What do you say of Siva? Ans. Siva, or Mahadeva, as he is mo

other, meet, a polite formula is to ask “To what sublime religion do you belong?” Then one will call himself a Buddhist, a

erm has gone out of use, the honest fishermen there will gravely tell you , that when William the Conqueror, after landing i

at deep ; in Plautus439 one of the characters says, “That is to say, you have been carried on a wooden horse along the azu

roused to indignation : she raised her hand to heaven and cried, “May you live for ever in that pool !” Her wish was instan

d of a nymph Arge, who when pursuing a buck cried out to him, «Though you should follow the course of the Sun I will overta

him, «Though you should follow the course of the Sun I will overtake you ,» at which the Sun being offended, turned her int

aid, “Though it is not strictly right in me to do so, yet I will show you something new.” He then desired them to inquire o

and hard fortune, why do ye oblige me to tell what it were better for you not to know ? Life is most free from pain when on

former were vanquished ; and the nymphs cried out to them, “O youths, you have been contending with the Epimelian nymphs !

them, “O youths, you have been contending with the Epimelian nymphs ! you shall therefore be punished.” The shepherds insta

oving the false alarm of her maids at the sight of him, says1423, “Do you think he is an enemy ? There is not a living mort

t, And veil your heads and loose your girded clothes, And cast behind you your great parent’s bones. They were at first ho

,” says he, “long ago, not lately, how it was ; and I will tell it to you all, my friends.” He relates the circumstance of

ains, the ripened grain to reap, Till crowned with oak in antic dance you leap, Invoking Ceres; and in solemn lays, Exalt y

, And veil your heads, and loose your girded clothes, And cast behind you your great parent’s bones!” They heard the words