Rapid they run; the foamy waters fry;

They roll to sea with unresisted force,

And down the rocks precipitate their course

Not with less rage the rival heroes take

Their different ways; nor less destruction make.

With spears afar, with swords at hand, they strike;

And zeal of slaughter fires their souls alike.

Like them, their dauntless men maintain the field;

And hearts are pierced, unknowing how to yield:

They blow for blow return, and wound for wound;