V

Like one great opal on the breast of Night,

Soft and translucent, hangs the orb of June!

I hear wild pipings of a joyous tune

Played on a golden reed for the delight

Of you, my hidden, lovely Eremite —

You by the fountain from the marble hewn —

You silent as in dream, with flowers strewn

About your feet — you goddess, robed in white!

Mute and amazed, I at the broken wall

Lean fearful, lest the sudden, dreadful dawn

For me Diana's awful doom let fall;

And I be cursed with curious Action,

Save that you find in me this strong defence —

My adoration of your innocence.