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 * So spake the patriarch of mankind, but Eve

Persisted; yet submiss, though last, replied:
 * "With thy permission then, and thus forewarned,

Chiefly by what thy own last reasoning words Touched only, that our trial, when lestleast [sic] sought, May find us both perhaps far less prepared, The willinger I go, nor much expect A foe so proud will first the weaker seek; So bent, the more shall shame him his repulse."
 * Thus saying, from her husband's hand her hand

Soft she withdrew, and, like a wood-nymph light, Oread or Dryad, or of Delia's train, Betook her to the groves; but Delia's self In gait surpassed, and goddess-like deport, Though not as she with bow and quiver armed, But with such gardening-tools as yet art rude, Guiltless of fire, had formed, or Angels brought To Pales, or Pomona, thus adorned, Likest she seemed—Pomona when she fled Vertumnus—or to Ceres in her prime, Yet virgin of Proserpina from Jove. Her long with ardent look his eye pursued, Delighted, but desiring more her stay. Oft he to her his charge of quick return Repeated; she to him as oft engaged To be returned by noon amid the bower, And all things in best order to invite Noontide repast, or afternoon's repose.