"Why say me nay?" he cries, "Why talk of chaperones severe?
I am in love and know the art to trick a listening ear."
"At stolen tryst and _rendez-vous_ my breath is light and low,
And I can give a kiss so soft not even the winds may know.
"I creep unheard at dead of night along a marble floor,
"Nor foot-fall make, nor tell-tale creak, when I unbar the door.
"What use are all my arts, if still my lady answers nay!
"If even to her couch I came, she'd frown and fly away!
"Or when she says she will, 'tis then she doth most treacherous prove,
"And keeps me tortured all night long with unrewarded love.
"And while I say 'She comes, she comes!' whatever breathes or stirs,
"I think I hear a footstep light of tripping feet like hers!
"Away vain arts of love! false aids to win the fair!
"Henceforth a cloak of filthy shag shall be my only wear!
"Her door is shut! She doth deny one moment's interview!
"I'll wear my toga loose no more, as happier lovers do."
_To Marathus_
Have done, dear lad! In vain thy tears! She will not heed thy plea!
Redden no more thy bright young eyes to please her cruelty!
_To Pholoe_
I warn thee, Pholoe, when the gods chastise thy naughty pride,
No incense burned at holy shrines will turn their wrath aside.
Pages:
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48