20
THE CHACE.
Book I.
Brew back his lowing Prize: In vain his Wiles,
In vain the Shelter of the cov'ring Rock,
In vain the sooty Cloud, and ruddy Flames
That issu'd from his Mouth; for soon he paid 305
His forfeit Life: A Debt how justly due
To wrong'd Alcides, and avenging Heav'n!
Veil'd in the Shades of Night they ford the Stream,
Then proling far and near, whate'er they seize
Becomes their Prey; nor Flocks nor Herds are safe, 310
Nor Stalls protect the Steer, nor strong barr'd Doors
Secure the fav'rite Horse, Soon as the Morn
Reveals his Wrongs, with ghastly Visage wan
The plunder'd Owner stands, and from his Lips
A thousand thronging Curses burst their Way: 315
He calls his stout Allies, and in a Line
His faithful Hound he leads, then with a Voice
That utters loud his Rage, attentive chears:
In vain the Shelter of the cov'ring Rock,
In vain the sooty Cloud, and ruddy Flames
That issu'd from his Mouth; for soon he paid 305
His forfeit Life: A Debt how justly due
To wrong'd Alcides, and avenging Heav'n!
Veil'd in the Shades of Night they ford the Stream,
Then proling far and near, whate'er they seize
Becomes their Prey; nor Flocks nor Herds are safe, 310
Nor Stalls protect the Steer, nor strong barr'd Doors
Secure the fav'rite Horse, Soon as the Morn
Reveals his Wrongs, with ghastly Visage wan
The plunder'd Owner stands, and from his Lips
A thousand thronging Curses burst their Way: 315
He calls his stout Allies, and in a Line
His faithful Hound he leads, then with a Voice
That utters loud his Rage, attentive chears:
Soon
