When conflict’s bitter strain to its decision + 

At last attaineth, then the best physician + 

Is mirth, to close the overtasking day. + 

And song, the Muses’ child inspired, can lay + 

On the heart’s wounds her magic hands of healing. + 

Not steaming baths so softly charm away + 

The ache of toil, as words of praise outpealing + 

In unison with the lyre. Man’s speech shall long + 

Outlast his deeds, what words soe’er the tongue + 

Hath drawn up, by the Graces’ kind control, + 

From wells of inspiration in the soul. + 