Faustina Maratti (c. 1679–1745)

Translated by Thomas Russell

TOO beauteous Rival, whose enticing charms

Once to my heart’s sole darling seemed so fair

That oft he praises still thine ivory arms,

Thy ruby lips, blue eyes, and auburn hair;—

Say, when he heard thy tongue’s seducing strain,

Stood he e’er silent, or with scorn replied,

Or turned with altered brow of cold disdain

From thy soft smiles, as now from mine, aside?

Once, once, too well I know, he held thee dear,

And then, when captive to thy sovereign will—

But why that look abashed, that starting tear,

Those conscious blushes which my fears fulfil?

Speak, answer, speak; nay, answer not, forbear,

If thou must answer that he loves thee still.