Hymn LXV: To Mars

Magnanimous, unconquer'd, boist'rous Mars,
In darts rejoicing, and in bloody wars ;
Fierce and untam'd, whose mighty pow'r can make
The strongest walls from their foundations shake :
Mortal-destroying king, defil'd with gore,
Pleas'd with war's dreadful and tumultuous roar.
Thee human blood, and swords, and spears delight,
And the dire ruin of mad savage fight.
Stay furious contests, and avenging strife,
Whose works with woe embitter human life ;
To lovely Venus and to Bacchus yield,
For arms exchange the labours of the field ;
Encourage peace, to gentle works inclin'd,
And give abundance, with benignant mind.