The Shepherd
As a lily among thorns, so is my love among daughters.
The Shulamite
(running to him.)
As is the apple among fruit, so is my beloved among men. In delight I have sat in his shadow and his savor was sweet to my taste. He brought me to the banquet hall and put o’er me the banner of love.
(Turning to the Odalisques.)
Stay me with wine, strengthen me with fruit, for I am swooning with love.
(Half-fainting she falls in the Shepherd’s arms.)
His left hand is under my head and his right hand doth embrace me.
The Shepherd
(to the Odalisques.)
I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes and the hinds of the field, that ye stir not, nor awake my beloved till she will.