Such aspect was presented to me, me recently emerged from my visions,
You will observe that pure form has its value.
“You are a very early inspector of mistresses.
“Do you think I have adopted your habits?”
There were upon the bed no signs of a voluptuous encounter,
No signs of a second incumbent.
She continued:
“No incubus has crushed his body against me,
“Though spirits are celebrated for adultery.
“And I am going to the temple of Vesta ...”
and so on.
Since that day I have had no pleasant nights.
XI
I
THE harsh acts of your levity!
Many and many.
I am hung here, a scare-crow for lovers.
2
Escape! There is, O Idiot, no escape,
Flee if you like into Ranaus,
desire will follow you thither,
Though you heave into the air upon the gilded Pegasean back,
Though you had the feathery sandals of Perseus
To lift you up through split air,
The high tracks of Hermes would not afford you shelter.
Amor stands upon you, Love drives upon lovers,
a heavy mass on free necks.