But all was false and hollow; though his tongue Dropp'd manna, and could make the worse appear The better reason, 4 to perplex and dash Maturest counsels.

Fame is the spur that the clear spirit doth raise

She what was honour knew, And with obsequious majesty approv'd My pleaded reason. To the nuptial bower I led her blushing like the morn; all heaven And happy constellations on that hour Shed their selectest influence; the earth Gave sign of gratulation, and each hill; Joyous the birds; fresh gales and gentle airs Whisper'd it to the woods, and from their wings Flung rose, flung odours from the spicy shrub.

Virtue could see to do what Virtue would by her own radiant light, though sun and moon where in the flat sea sunk.

Virtue, which breaks through opposition and all temptation can remove, most shines, and most is acceptable above.

Heaven open'd wide Her ever during gates, harmonious sound, On golden hinges moving.

In naked beauty most adorned.