it presented an occasion for the writing of one of the most celebrated
passages in modern poetry, a passage not easily to be surpassed for its
majesty and tenderness, and for a beauty which even those tiresome
allusions to the classics, that give a faded air to so much of the poetry
of the sixteenth century, cannot seriously disfigure nor obscure.

It is to be found in the Lusiadas of Camoens, and indicates the
culminating point of Portuguese discovery in Africa, as celebrated by the
national poet.

Just as the mariners approach the Cape, a cloud rises, darkens the air,
and then discloses a monstrous giant, with deep-set, caverned eyes, of
rugged countenance, and pallid earthy colour, vast as that statue of
Apollo, the colossal wonder of the world. In solemn language, this awful
shape pours forth disastrous prophecies, and threatens his highest
vengeance on those who have discovered him--maledictions which, alas! may
be securely uttered against those who accomplish aught that is bolder than
has hitherto been attempted by their fellow men.

When vexed by the question "Who art thou?" the "stupendous body" harshly
and mournfully replies, that he is that great stormy Cape, hitherto hidden
from mankind, whom their boldness in discovering much offends.

He then relates the touching story of his love: how he was Adamastor, of
the race of Titans, and how he loved Thetis, the fairest being of the sea;
and how, deceived by the (magic) arts of her "who was the life of his
body," he found himself caressing a rough and horrid crag instead of her
sweet, soft countenance; and how, crazed by grief and by dishonour, he
wandered forth to seek another world, where no one should behold him and
mock his misery; how still the vengeance of the gods pursued him; and how