The History of Polindor and Flostella :: :: University of Virginia Library

This sayd, the reverend Priest through warning-sign
Comes stealing in, that Nuptiall Knot to twine,
Whom gracefull'st Both approach'd: And now (behold)
Those Hands were link'd in Hymenean fold,
Mistick for th' inmost Hearts; with Dove-like eyes
Vowes made, exchang'd, th' eternall Deities
Call'd Witness too't: their mutuall Names (beside)
Each strait by course to th' other did divide
(Through hast in Parchment written) sweetly'st gave them;
Though most in Gold or brass did use t' engrave them;
Thus spake, With this my Heart and all is given:
As I am true to thee, so bless me Heav'n:
Then, Rings exchanged; last, embrace and kiss;
Th' old formall Priest pronouncing after this
Both Man and Wife, with short though solemn Blessing:
Poor gentle Mindes Heart so strangely o're-pressing
(Kind, melting Soul! with strongst conceit of that
Dear Union so over-powred strait)
She downright sob'd again, whilst wept Rufin.
Skies pleas'd, more Azure smiling-cheek'd, were seen;
Bright Phœbus gilding round the verdent Bow'r
With gaudy'st blazing Beams, as shun that hour
Grand heav'nly Witness; meant t' adorn the Place
His leavy Temple turn'd: for Anthem-grace
(Wood-quire ith' cloze) conjoyned chirping Throng;
Seem'd Warble forth their Hymenean Song.
Thus, speaking half in fearfull Looks their last,
Quick, short Farwells, the Lady now in hast
Shut all forth; back to th' Vestall Mansion stealing,
True Mayd and Wife: Polindor's joyes excelling
Th' whole earth, since gained thus th' All-wealthy Prize.