Page:Famous history of the two unfortunate lovers, Hero & Leander (2).pdf/17

17 divine creature, if I thus presume to prostrate myself before you, in hopes that so much goodness can pardon a crime of so high a nature, and espe- cially this, seeing it is authorised by love, whose commands must he obeyed, and whose flames are irresistable. O turn not away those dazzling suns of light that guide me to my happiness ; but let those orient eyes shine upon me with beams of comfort that I may live by the brightness of their rays, and the smiles of my fair Hero. He would have proceeded, but Hero entreated him to rise, and Amorissa advising them to go into the arbour, as well to keep them from the heat, as from the prying eyes that might be upon them; tho two lovers obeyed, being both overjoyed at so happy a meeting. In the arbour, whilst he gently squeezed her hand, which sho permitted him to kiss, sho told him she hoped ho would not misconstrue her actions, in being so forward in granting him favours she had never granted to any one living: then it was agreed that he should make his public appear- ance next day at tho castle of Sestus, but to be very cautious how ho mado love to her in public, or shewed the least sign of it, till she knew how her father stood inclined to favour him, for though she loved Leander entirely, yet she looked upon the consent of her parents as material.

CHAP. VI.

Leander’s fatal dream, and the treachery of the prince of Perso- polis to oppose his love. Hero's father entertains him with joy, yet denies his consent, in favour of the prince of Persepolis.

The best and constant lovers having had the mutual satisfaction of an interview, and in their hearts inseparably linked by the chains of lovo, Hero and Amorissa retired, and Leander rosolved