XXXVII.

But from the Hermitage terrific rocks Come bounding fierce, of such enormous size, That seemeth each of those succeeding shocks Enough to sink a column ne’er to rise! Not Valour’s self can with unmovéd eyes That horrid task of Sisyphus survey. Appalled and unadvancing the allies With distant fire along the mountain way The foe in vain assail, withheld by dire dismay.