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.