XVI. From milk of Juno, as the Poets feign

Robert Tofte (1561–1620)

FROM milk of JUNO, as the Poets feign,

The Lily had its whiteness, passing white:

And from ADONIS’ blood, that lovely Swain,

The Rose his colour red, which doth delight.

Thou, pretty Soul, hast both the colours rare

Of these sweet flowers; which others all exceed.

Thy breast ’s a bed of beauteous Lilies fair;

Thy dainty cheeks, pure damask Rose breed.

O fruitful garden flow’ring; where appear

The Rose and Lily at all times of year!