The ancients used often to begin their verses by invoking the muse, that is, by a short address or prayer to one of the Muses, entreating her to inspire the poet — to give him some portion of celestial intelligence, that his poetry might be worthy of the favour of the goddess, and of the esteem of mankind. […] They are called Muses, from a Greek word, signifying to meditate, to inquire. […] The first of the Muses, Clio, derives her name from the Greek word, signifying glory, renown. […] Who were the Muses? […] Where were the favourite haunts of the Muses?