Luís de Camões (c. 1524–1580)

Translated by J. J. Aubertin

WITHIN a wood nymphs were inhabiting,

Sibella, lovely nymph, was wandering free;

And climbing up into a shady tree,

The yellow blossoms there was gathering.

Cupid, who thither ever turned his wing,

Cool in his shady mid-day sleep to be,

Would on a branch, e’er sleeping, pendent see

The bow and arrows he was wont to bring.

The nymph, who now the moment fitting saw

For so great enterprise, in nought delays,

But flies the scorner with the arms she’s ta’en.

She bears the arrows in her eyes, to draw.

Oh! shepherds fly, for every one she slays,

Save me alone, who live by being slain.