Odes 4.12 (Creech): Jam Veris Comites

THe soft Companions of the Spring
The gentle Thracian Gales
Spread o're the Earth their flowry Wing,
And swell the greedy Merchants Sails:

The Streams not swoln with melted Snow
In fair Meanders play,
To quiet Seas they smoothly flow,
And gently eat their easy way.

The Swallow with the Spring returns,
And as she builds her Nest,
Her murder'd Itys sadly mourns
And sighs, and beats her troubled Breast.

The swallow Athens lasting shame,
For tho her Cause was just,
Her Breast conceiv'd a lawless flame,
And ill reveng'd the Tyrant's Lust.

The Swain whilst Flocks securely feed
Sits down, and sweetly plays,
He softly blows his Oaten Reed,
And pleaseth Pan with rural Lays:

The Season, Virgil, brings us thirst;
And if you Mirth design
With Noble youths, bring Oyntment first,
And I'le provide Thee racy Wine:

For one small Box of Oyntment brought
I will a Cask prepare,
'Tis strong to tame a lofty thought,
Check hopes, and wash down bitter Care.

Now if you'l make a joyful Guest
I'le not, as Nobles do,
Bear all the Charges of the Feast
But must expect a share from you.

Think Life is short, forget thy fears,
And eager thoughts of Gain,
Short Folly mix with graver Cares,
'Tis decent sometimes to be vain.