Pindar, Olympian 13
A translation as faithful to the original - but comprehensible - as I could make it.
I pray you, child of Zeus Deliverer,
mighty Himera preserve, Guardian Fate.
For by you over sea are guided swift
ships, and on land rapid battles
and assemblies bearing counsel. As for men,
their hopes often rise, but often in turn they tumble down,
cutting their way through foolish delusions.
A sure sign so far has no one on earth,
regarding an action yet to occur, discovered from the Gods;
Their intentions for future things remain obscure.
Much upon men against their reason falls,
Sometimes to reverse their comfort, but then, sometimes
having grievous storms encountered
for a powerful good their suffering they trade on a sudden.
Son of Philanor, remember that un-acclaimed
like a local-fighting cock by its native hearth
the honor of your feet would have lost its splendor,
if faction brother-against-brother had not bereft you of Knossos, your home.
Now, at Olympia having taken your crown,
and twice from Pytho and the Isthmus too, Ergoteles,
the Nymphs' warm baths you exalt, maintaining
lands that are yours.