To Hermes

I praise you, bright Hermes, clever son of great Zeus.
On the day you were born was your craftiness known,
you whose cattle-theft angered brother Apollo,
whose quick words appeased him, whose lyre-gift made him friend.
Bringer of luck, good fortune ever follows you,
who is so dear to merchant and gambler alike.
Friend of travellers, you watch us on our journeys,
honored Hermes, and see us safely home once more,
fleet-footed one whose agile wit may accomplish
what strength and wisdom cannot. God of the crossroads,
guide of the dead, messenger of the blessed gods,
Hermes so swift and sure, I praise and honor you.