SONG CCXX. ODE to MAY

Fairest Daughter of the Day, Lovely Goddess, sprightly May; Hither come with Roses crown'd, Painting where you tread the Ground.

At the lov'd Approach of thee, Shoot the Mulberry, luscious Tree; Vine their ruddier Leaves unfold, Nor the Fig-tree dreads the Cold.

Nymph divine, behold the Flowers, Rise to grace thy vernal Showers; Woodbines spangled o'er the Dew. Deck their Arborets for you.

Tulips rear their glittering Heads, Pinks adorn the fragrant Beds, And the silver Lillies swell; And the golden Asphodel.

Goddess, with thy Vest of Green, Goddess, with thy youthful Mien, Come, and bring the Mines of Wealth, Gladness, and her parent Health.

Bring along thy Virgin Train, Chace away grim Care and Pain: Now the Loves and Graces all, Throng obedient to thy Call.