And his features, the Cyprian goddess’s pride,
Were as lovely as ever, more roguish by half,
For he scarce could refrain from a boisterous laugh.
And as soon as he saw him, the husbandman, smiling,
Knew at once the young Love-god the boy was beguiling.
Then said he to the boy: “Quick, away from this grove:
The bird thou art seeking is mischievous Love!
Though brilliant his hues as the butterfly’s wings,
And melody dwells on the strain that he sings,
Yet a dangerous prize to the catcher he’ll prove.