Have changed to smoke, and vanished out of sight!
The mournful story, and the end full sore
Of proud Numantia's unconquered town,
Deserve to be remembered evermore.
Their loss and fall have gained them good renown;
Their dying, which displayed their firmness most,
Hath snatched from thee the triumph and the crown.
Our schemes are vain, and all our labour lost;
Their death with honour better issue shews
That all the power the Roman arms can boast.