O’ powerful Nike, by men desired,
with adverse breasts to dreadful fury fired,
Thee I invoke, whose might alone can quell
contending rage and molestation fell.
‘Tis thine in battle to confer the crown,
the victor’s prize, the mark of sweet renown;
For thou rulest all things, Nike divine!
And glorious strife, and joyful shouts are thine.
Come, mighty Goddess, and thy suppliant bless,
with sparkling eyes, elated with success;
May deeds illustrious thy protection claim,
and find, led on by thee, immortal fame!
*Orphic Hymn 33 to Victory
The Delightful Mrs P 