The first division of the splendid feast,

While round a vacant board the chiefs recline,

Huge goblets are brought forth; they crown the wine;

Voices of gladness roll the walls around;

Those gladsome voices from the courts rebound; 100

From gilded rafters many a blazing light

Depends, and torches overcome the night.

The minutes fly—till, at the queen’s command,

A bowl of state is offered to her hand:

Then she, as Belus wont, and all the line 105