Homeric Hymn 18 to Hermes


“I sing of Hermes Kyllenios (of Mt Kyllene), Argeiphontes (the Slayer of Argus), lord of Kyllene and Arkadia rich in flocks, Eriones (luck-bringing) Angelos Athanaton (messenger of the deathless gods). He was born of Maia, the daughter of Atlas, when she had made with Zeus, – a shy goddess she. Ever she avoided the throng of the blessed gods and lived in a shadowy cave, and there Kronion [Zeus] used to lie with the rich-tressed Nymphe at dead of night, while white-armed Hera lay bound in sweet sleep: and neither deathless god nor mortal man knew it. And so hail to you, Son of Zeus and Maia; with you I have begun: now I will turn to another song! Hail, Hermes, Kharidotes (giver of grace), Diaktoros (guide), and Dotor Eaon (giver of good things)!”