Head by head bat-like, blots under the ban

Of daylight earth's blessing since time began!


The Fates. Back to thy blest earth, prying Apollo!

Shaft upon shaft transpierce with thy beams

Earth to the centre,—spare but this hollow

Hewn out of Night's heart, where our mystery seems

Mewed from day's malice: wake earth from her dreams!


Apol. Crones, 't is your dusk selves I startle from slumber: