The Prophecy of Themis
9:518 Now from her lips a solemn oath had past,
9:519 That Iolaus this gift alone shou'd
taste,
9:520 Had not just Themis thus maturely
said
9:521 (Which check'd her vow, and aw'd
the blooming maid).
9:522 Thebes is embroil'd in war. Capaneus stands
9:523 Invincible, but by the Thund'rer's
hands.
9:524 Ambition shall the guilty brothers
fire,
9:525 Both rush to mutual wounds, and
both expire.
9:526 The reeling Earth shall ope her
gloomy womb,
9:527 Where the yet breathing bard
shall find his tomb.
9:528 The son shall bath his hands
in parents' blood,
9:529 And in one act be both unjust,
and good.
9:530 Of home, and sense depriv'd,
where-e'er he flies,
9:531 The Furies, and his mother's
ghost he spies.
9:532 His wife the fatal bracelet shall
implore,
9:533 And Phegeus stain his sword in
kindred gore.
9:534 Callirhoe shall then with suppliant
pray'r
9:535 Prevail on Jupiter's relenting
ear.
9:536 Jove shall with youth her infant
sons inspire,
9:537 And bid their bosoms glow with
manly fire.