[52. the cross dire-looking planet.] Cross means adverse, unfavorable. See [note on influence], Hymn on the Nativity 71.
[54. evening gray.] See [note on Lycidas 187].
[60. murmurs.] Compare [Comus 526].
[63. the celestial Sirens’ harmony.] The Sirens are here advanced to a high function and given a new Epithet. Compare [Comus 253].
[64. the nine infolded spheres.] See [note on Hymn on Nativity 48].
[65-66.] See [note on Lycidas 75].
[69. the daughters of Necessity:] the Fates.
[72-73. which none can hear Of human mould with gross unpurged ear.] Compare Merchant of Venice V 1 64.
[87. touch the warbled string:] the string that is accompanied with the voice. See [Il Penseroso 106].
[97. Ladon], a river of Arcadia, flowing into the Alpheus.