Odes Horace Horace. The Odes and Carmen Saeculare of Horace. Conington, John, translator. London: George Bell and Sons, 1882. Or if your choice be that rude pike,New barb'd with death, leap down and askThe wind to bear you. Would you likeThe bondmaid's task,You, child of kings, a master's toy,A mistress' slave?’” Beside her, lo!Stood Venus smiling, and her boyWith unstrung bow.Then, when her laughter ceased, “Have doneWith fume and fret,” she cried, “my fair;That odious bull will give you soonHis horns to tear.