Classic Poem

R ECIT .

In silver plumes of snowy down array'd,
Great Jove to Leda came,
And while she fondly with his pinions play'd
Thus sang the beauteous dame.

A IR

Purling streams and crystal fountains,
All to thee their beauties owe,
Nor can whitest Alpine mountains
Rival thee in whiter snow.

Thou to me art always dear,
I adore thy downy charms;
Ever take thy dwelling here;
Never fly from Leda's arms.

R ECIT .

As thus she sang almighty Jove
Explor'd the sweets of godlike love,
And while he warmly touch'd her heart
She thus express'd the pleasing smart.

A IR

Dearest charmer, O forbear!
I can ne'er such joys receive;
This is bliss beyond compare,
Nor could gods a greater give.

Tho' the streams thy absence mourn,
Let 'em, let 'em mourn in vain;
Thou shalt never hence return,
But with Leda still remain.