Classic Poem

When hungry wolves had trespass'd on the fold,
And the robb'd shepherd his sad story told;
“Call in Alcides,” said a crafty priest;
“Give him one half, and he'll secure the rest.”
No! said the shepherd, if the Fates decree,
By ravaging my flock, to ruin me,
To their commands I willingly resign,
Power is their character, and patience mine;
Though, troth! to me there seems but little odds,
Who prove the greatest robbers, wolves or gods!