To seem but as the concubine of Jove.1500
Whether the story of the night prolonged
At Hercules' begetting be the truth,
Or whether I was got of mortal sire—
Though I be falsely called the son of Jove,
I have indeed deserved to be his son;
For I have honored him, and to his praise1505
My mother brought me forth. Nay, Jove himself
Is proud that he is held to be my sire.
Then cease thy tears, O mother; thou shalt be