The trembling tree with sudden horror shook,
Lotis, the nymph (if rural tales be true)
As from Priapus’ lawless lust she flew,
Forsook her form; and, fixing here, became
A flow’ry plant, which still preserves her name.
This change unknown, astonished at the sight,
My trembling sister strove to urge her flight;
Yet first the pardon of the nymph implored,
And those offended sylvan powers adored:
But when she backward would have fled, she found