LEANDER.
13
And seiz'd her robe, and full of pleasing thought
The last recesses of the temple fought.
With steps unequal she advanc'd behind,
And with a willing, half unwilling mind,
Threaten'd the youth; at once severe and kind.
Stranger, what madness doth thy breast invade?
Whither, ah! whither would you force a maid?
Let loose my garments quick, and home retire;
Flee the displeasure of my wealthy fire:
If that you slight, and mortal pow'r disown,
Vex not the priestess, lest the goddess frown.
Go, be not with presumptuous thoughts mis-led;
'Tis bold aspiring to a virgin's bed.
True to her sex, thus chid the charming fair,
But glad Leander could such chidings bear:
This seeming storm a future calm betrays;
Th' auspicious omen of his Halcyon days.