The port was the dark burden of that womb,

Whose liquid bowels are the greedy tomb

Of trade and hope, by art improved to be

From foes a refuge, boisterous winds, and sea.

The worth and safety, though not equal fate

Of this fair prize, might Jason's emulate;

That yellow fleece, bulls hoofed with thunder kept,

And a near watchful guard, that never slept.

This cloistered, in the hostile harbour lay,

Maintained by castles and a treacherous way.