The virgin huntress' rapid dart
From her unconquer'd quiver flew,165
And high-aspiring Tityus slew,
That mortals may desire to prove
The transports of permitted love." 164
So they their mutual thoughts impart.
Then with his mules and polish'd car170
Came Pelias rushing from afar.
Mute wonder held his mind in thrall
Soon as alone the right foot round
He view'd the well-known sandal bound.
But with dissembled fear address'd175
The monarch, his unwelcome guest:
"What country boast'st thou thy dear land to call?
Fair offspring of a spotless womb,
By mortal lineage art thou come?
Tell quickly thine illustrious race,180
Nor by detested lies disgrace." 178
To him the bold and fearless youth
In placid words this answer gave:
"I come from Chiron's shady cave,
Who disciplined my soul to truth.185
By Chariclo and Philyra the fair,
Centaurus' daughters, I was nurtured there.
But when the twentieth year had fled,
Homeward my youthful steps I bent.
To them no word of parting said,190
Naught that could mark my fix'd intent
To take the sceptre of the land,
Grasp'd by another's lawless hand.
An honour which the king of heaven
To Æolus and to his sons had given. 192195
For Fame reports that Pelias bold,
Slave to his wishes uncontroll'd,
My honour'd parents' rightful sway
