Say, mark ye not his virtuous way?
His rule is, covet nought, none hate:
How can his steps from goodness stray?[308]
From the same book we translate somewhat freely an example (No. 17) of love-song, or serenade, not uncommon among these odes.
Maiden fair, so sweet, retiring,
At the tryst I wait for thee;
Still I pause in doubt, inquiring
Why thou triflest thus with me.
Ah! the maid so coy, so handsome,
Pledged she with a rosy reed;