 | Idyls and Songs |  |
39
XIV. FROM CATULLUS. (I)
TO LESBIA'S SPARROW.
Sparrow, my delight's delight,Bosom-cradled playmate bright,
Seize her finger in thy bill,
Privileged to bite at will:
First to share, thrice-envied lot,
Some dear game, I know not what,
Framed to soothe my beauty bright,
Passion-rack'd in deep delight.
—Could I hold such sport with thee,
It were sure relief to me;
Trifle sure: yet trifles laid
On the course a Princess stay'd;
Bribed to yield herself the prize,
Love's reluctant sacrifice!
| Idyls and Songs | |