THE SIRENS’ SONG.

Steer hither, steer your wingèd pines,

All beaten mariners:

Here lie undiscovered mines

A prey to passengers;

Perfumes far sweeter than the best

Which make the phœnix urn and nest;

Fear not your ships,

Nor any to oppose you save our lips;

But come on shore,

Where no joy dies till love hath gotten more.

For swelling waves, our panting breasts,

Where never storms arise,

Exchange; and be awhile our guests;

For stars, gaze on our eyes;

The compass, Love shall hourly sing,

And, as he goes about the ring,

We will not miss

To tell each point he nameth with a kiss.

Browne: Inner Temple Masque.