Metamorphoses - Book 9:240

The flames were rising, spreading all round and crackling

loudly,

licking away at the limbs of the hero, who calmly awaited

a foe he despised. The gods were afraid for the Earth's great champion;

but Jupiter, sensing their fear and beaming with pure

satisfaction,

grandly addressed them: 'You gods, this anxiety of yours is

a pleasure

to me. I offer myself wholehearted congratulations

that I should be called the father and king of a people that

cares,

that a son of mine should be also supported by your good

wishes.

This support is a tribute, I'm sure, to his own magnificent

exploits,

but I am myself in your debt. Now truly, my faithful subjects,

you mustn't be needlessly frightened. Ignore those flames on

Mount Oeta.

The hero who conquered all will conquer the fire you are

watching.

Vulcan's power will only affect the part he derives

from his mother's side. The part he derives

from his mother's side. The part he derives from me is

eternal,

it cannot be touched by death and is fully resistant to fire.

This part, when its time on earth is complete, will be

welcomed by me

to the realms of the sky, and I trust this action of mine will

give pleasure