Whence the bare road[429] descended rapidly

To the green meadows of another vale.[GD]

Here did our pensive Host put forth his hand

In sign of farewell. "Nay," the old Man said,

"The fragrant air its coolness still retains;

The herds and flocks are yet abroad to crop

The dewy grass; you cannot leave us now,

We must not part at this inviting hour."

He yielded,[430] though reluctant; for his mind