Page:Hero and Leander; a poem (IA heroleanderpoem00musa).pdf/30

 Her robe assiduous shields the guiding flame, Till the fond bark safe in the harbor rests From Love's much-labor'd voyage; to the Tow'r She leads him fainting from his course, and steals Full many a wish'd embrace; though reeking still With Ocean's foam, she leads him to the joys Of Hymen's hallow'd scene; with fragrant oil, Sweet as the vernal rose, his limbs she sooths, And wipes the tear Neptunian; on the couch Gently she seats, and clasps him to her breast, The voice of Love soft-breathing from her soul.

'Great were thy labors, Bridegroom! thou alone 'Would'st stem th'opposing torrent; great thy toils! 'Enough the briny wave, enough the roar 'Of angry Ocean! my Leander, lull, 'Lull ev'ry care, and bless thy Hero's arms.'

She ends, the note of melody awakes The weary'd Lover's trance; her virgin zone He loos'd impatient, and in mutual bliss They consecrate the rites of Venus' shrine.