Coiled in a serpent’s folds; and there was nought
That in brave warriors could awaken fright,
Save his dire glance and fascinating might.
XXVI.
For, strange to tell! e’en on the human kind,
That serpent ventured his mysterious charm;
And there were those who thought the subtle mind
Of Chepian’s self inspired his winding form.
All sought his omens.—He was aye enshrined,
Through winter’s cold, in furs to keep him warm;