Page:Sappho and the Vigil of Venus (1920).djvu/55

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THE VIGIL OF VENUS.
35

Him midst travail of the lealand Venus to her bosom pressed,
Fed on flowerets' dainty kisses Cupid cradled on her breast.
Tomorn who ne'er hath loved shall love, and who hath loved shall love tomorn.


20

Lo, with mighty flank extended bulls upon the heather lie;
All communities are knit together by the spousal-tie.
'Neath the shade around their hornèd lords are couched the bleating throngs;
And the Goddess bids the chanting birds to silence not their songs.
Tomorn who ne'er hath loved shall love, and who hath loved shall love tomorn.


21

Now the clamorous swans are hoarsely crying o'er the stirless mere;
Tereus' daughter 'neath the poplar shade is singing sweet and clear.
Ye would think that melodies of love are rippling from her throat,
No complaint of brutal husband, no despairing sorrow's note.
Tomorn who ne'er hath loved shall love, and who hath loved shall love tomorn.