When the last echo from the couch of Fame
Falls on the dying ear? Oh! this mine act
Were best done whilst the blood is warm—lest time
For thought should mar the purpose. Thought?—a glorious deed
Needs none. Come horse!—and at one fearful bound
Plunge in the gulf beneath!
Curtius leaps into the chasm.
Sooth.—The gods attest the worth of this bold youth.
Cit.—The chasm closes—and the dangers pass:
With buried Curtius following envy lies,