Hymn to Hermes XVIII

Homeric Hymns

I sing of Kyllenian Hermes, the Slayer of Argos, lord of Kyllene and Arkadia rich in flocks, luck-bringing messenger of the deathless gods.
He was born of Maia, the daughter of Atlas, when she had mated with Zeus—a shy goddess she.
Ever she avoided the throng of the blessed gods and lived in a shadowy cave, and there the son of Kronos used to lie with the rich-tressed Nymph at dead of night, while white-armed Hera lay bound in sweet sleep; and neither deathless god nor mortal man knew it.
And so hail to you, son of Zeus and Maia; with you I have begun; now I will turn to another song!
Hail, Hermes, giver of grace, guide, and giver of good things!