Minor Latin poets; with introductions and English translations

REPOSIANUSdamsels of Byblos, unlace the breast of stalwartMars^—let one slacken the knots, one try the ironbands which i>iiard his breastplate, you others keepthe shield and weapons. 'Tis the fitting moment tohandle violets. Rejoice, O Cupid, that the aweinspiringgod is conquered by your divinity aloneinstead of weapons there be flowers, instead of shieldthe myrtle wreaths ; the rose, it so befalls, takes theplace of the sword at which men have cause totremble !Mavors had come to the couch and resting his hardweight upon the flowers disordered all their gracefulness.Fair Venus came scarce leaving footprint inher caution lest the prickly flowers should mar hertender feet, and, now entwining her tresses lest kissesmight ruflle them, now letting her robes flow loose,can scarce confine them in her languor : she is notwholly hid nor wholly bares her charms. He in hiscovering of flowers with stealthy eye gazes agape at\"enus, quivering in the full flame of passion.'* ThePaphian goddess sank upon the couch. Ah ! Cupidthe august, how coaxing the words, what the murmursthey then did utter there ! What kisses didthey then imprint upon commingled lips ! How welldid limb clasp limb in close embrace ! Then Mavorsdrew his right hand from the Paphian 's breast andlest his weight should hurt the left arm twined aroundher neck, sets white lilies and rose-wreaths underneath.Oft the leg's light touch stirred the loverinto flames by the goddess fanned. At last, itbefell, the languor of repose had mastered theweary limbs of Mars ;yet did not all love's rapture,yet did not all the flame, quit the god's breastamidst his slumber he heaves sighs and from the533