University of Virginia Library

ODE IX.

HORACE.
When first our Hearts and Arms did join,
When you were Mine, and only Mine,
I thought my self more truly blest
Than all the Monarchs of the East.

LYDIA.
When only I your Bosom fill'd,
Nor Lydia did to Chloe yield,
Then Lydia might with Ilia vie;
None was so Blest so great as I.

HORACE.
Now Chloe's Voice, and tuneful Lyre,
And Beauty, set my Soul on Fire;
I'd die to save the gentle Fair,
If Death her dearer Life would spare.

LYDIA.
Young Calais is all my Joy;
In mutual Flames I meet the Boy:
Had I two Lives, I'd gladly give
Both to the Fates, so he might live.

HORACE.
What if my former Love return,
And equally again we burn?
If Chloe should resign her Part,
And you once more possess my Heart?

LYDIA.
Though He I love is heav'nly fair,
You as the Winds inconstant are;
I'd bid the gentle Youth adieu,
And freely live and die with You.