The Argonauts

14 ARGONAUTAE Thus, stepping ever proud and calm, he went Unto the grove of Ares, where the worm, Huge in his hatred, guarded all. But now Sunk in some stupor, surely sent of Zeus, He stirred not. Stepping delicately past The dragon, then came Jason to the grove And saw what tree umbrageous bore the fruit That he had saddened for so long. And he, Rending the branches of that wizard Oak, With a strong grasp tore down the Fleece of Gold. Then came a voice: ‘Woe, woe! <Aea’s isle! The glory is departed!” And a voice Answered it “Woe!” Then Jason seemed to see Some Fear behind the little former fears; And his face blanched a moment, as beholding Some Fate, some distant grief. Then, catching sight Now of the glory of his gain, he seemed: Caught in an ecstasy, treading the earth As in a brighter dream than Aphrodite Sent ever to a man, he turned himself (We could not see him for the golden flame Burning about him!) moving hitherward. But I took horse and hasted, since reward May greet such tidings, and for joy to see Your joy exceed my joy. MEDEA. Reward indeed Awaits thee from such folk as us, who stand