The Garden in Samothrace

Translated by H. H. Milman

SUCH was that shady garden. Near flowed forth

A fountain with two springs, whence all might draw

Perennial waters cool; in many a rill

Thence had the skilful gardener trained along

From plant to plant the winding wandering stream.

As though by Phœbus sent, the gentle fount

Went, softly murmuring round the laurel’s root.

Each on his marble pedestal stood round

Many a tall youth, all subtly wrought in gold;

Each held a lamp, that threw its mellow light

O’er the evening banquet. Rows of mimic dogs

Were scattered in the vestibule, and seemed

With open mouths, though mute, to bay; each hound

Of silver and of gold alternate stood,

As on their master fawning. Each at once,

As Cadmus passed, appeared, with welcoming bay

Harmonious, to salute the godlike man,

And quiver with delight the unmoving tail.