Page:Eclogues of Virgil (1908).djvu/18

 From Jove the Muse begins;

All things are full of him: he guards the earth,

He listens to my songs.

Phœbus loves me,

My gifts he welcomes—bays and hyacinths red.

Gay Galatea with an apple pelts,

Then flies to hide 'mongst willows, all the while

Desiring to be seen.

Ah, but hear!

Amyntas, of his own accord, to me

Offers his friendship—so our household dogs

Know him as well as Delia.

For my love

Are plenteous gifts provided; I have marked

The spot where the doves build their lofty nest.

And I have done my utmost; from the tree

Ten golden apples gathered for my boy

And on the morrow, more I mean to send.

How often did my Galatea whisper words

To my quick ear? Ye winds, I pray you waft

Some portion of them to the listening gods.

Amyntas, though thou do not me despise

What boots it if I needs must guard the nets

Whilst thou canst gaily chase the rushing boar?

Send Phyllis to me, Iolas—it is

My birthday—come yourself and see

When the young heifer for the crops I slay.

Phyllis I love above all women—she