To quench th’ ethereal flame of ardent love.
The merchant, kindling then with proud disdain,
In look, and voice, assumed an harsher strain.
In absence now his only hope remained;
And such the stern decree his will ordained:
Deep anguish, while Palemon heard his doom,
Drew o’er his lovely face a saddening gloom;
High beat his heart, fast flowed th’ unbidden tear,
His bosom heaved with agony severe;
In vain with bitter sorrow he repin’d, }