Classic Poem

Now see the sacrifice leap up to heaven,
Greeting the gods as their vision is thrilled;
Hear what new songs to the lyre are given,
While the warm blood of a heifer is spilled.
Even the dumb things their gladness are voicing;
For from the ultimate limits of Spain
Numida comes to the sounds of rejoicing,
Comes to his home and his comrades again
Come then, bring the jars
Full of bubbling glories;
Let us shake the stars
With our songs and stories.
Pour the laughing wine
Borne by this Liburnian;
Mix with Surrentine,
Massic and Falernian.
Let the jocund dance
Cease not till the morning,
And let wreaths enhance
Nature's own adorning.
Where the parsley shows,
Strew the daffodilly;
Lavishing the rose
And the short-lived lily.
Feast your swimming eyes
On this floral palace
And its fairest prize,
The divine Damalis.
Lo, how soft she sings
In this leafy cover,
And like ivy clings
To her latest lover …

Now see the sacrifice leap up to heaven,
Greeting the gods as their vision is thrilled;
Hear what new songs to the lyre are given
While the warm blood of a heifer is spilled.
Even the dumb things their gladness are voicing;
For from the ultimate limits of Spain
Numida comes to the sounds of rejoicing,
Comes to his home and his comrades again!