Madrigal 24. Thus, as She was, ’bove human glory graced

Barnabe Barnes (1569?–1609)

THUS, as She was, ’bove human glory graced,

The Saint, methought, departed;

And suddenly upon her feet, she started.

JUNO beheld, and fain would have defaced

That female miracle! proud Nature’s wonder!

Least JOVE, through heaven’s clear windows, should espy her;

And (for her beauty) JUNO’s love neglect!

Down she descends; and as she walkèd by her,

A branch of Lilies, JUNO tears in sunder.

Then, from her sphere, did VENUS down reflect,

Lest MARS, by chance, her beauty should affect.

And with a branch of Roses

She beat upon her face! Then JUNO closes!

And with white lilies, did her beauty chasten.

But lovely Graces, in memorial,

Let both the Rose and Lily’s colour fall

Within her cheeks, which, to be foremost hasten.