Classic Poem

E DWARD , o'ercome by summer's sultry heat,
Sought in a neighbouring wood a cool retreat;
When, as beneath an oak's broad shade he lay,
To the same spot fair Julia chanc'd to stray;
Startled at first she seem'd prepar'd to fly,
Then stopt — and look'd, and sigh'd — she knew not why —
A blush just rising flush'd her lovely cheek,
Her lips, half open, seem'd inclin'd to speak,
But youth's warm ardour modesty suppress'd,
And heav'd with quick pulsation Julia's breast!
Those heaving breasts electric fires impart,
Flash through the eyes, and vibrate to the heart!
Unguarded Edward feels their potent charms,
And mad with love, he rushes to her arms!
Consenting Venus draws the mystic veil,
Guards their retreat — and stops the Muse's tale —
Let wisdom sternly frown; and Stoics blame,
Cato, by Julia's side, had done the same!