When these clear oracles the senate knew, The sacred tripod’s counsels they pursue, Depute a pious and a chosen band, Who sail to Epidaurus’ neighbouring land. Before the Grecian elders when they stood, They pray them to bestow the healing god: “Ordain’d was he to save Ausonia’s state; So promised Delphos, and unerring fate.”

Opinions various their debates enlarge: Some plead to yield to Rome the sacred charge; Others, tenacious of their country’s wealth, Refuse to grant the power who guards its health.