Classic Poem

R ECIT .

Transform'd in female shape, as old and lame,
The god Vertumnus to Pomona came,
And while the goddess all her store display'd,
He thus address'd the heavenly maid.

A IR

Goddess lovely and divine,
Guardian of each fruitful tree,
A while thy darling joys decline,
And lend an ear to love and me.
Blooming beauties should be kind
And take the blessings while they may,
For time is swift, and love is blind,
And passion cools when charms decay.

R ECIT .

While he appear'd thus odious to her eyes,
The goddess did his strains despise;
But when transform'd by pow'r divine,
Vertumnus did with blooming graces shine,
Thus sang Pomona all amaz'd,
While on the youthful god she fondly gaz'd.

A IR

Successful, happy charmer,
'Tis you alone can warm her,
Who never lov'd before.

Be bless'd as I can make you,
I never will forsake you,
But love you more and more.