Sonnet LXIII. Jove for Europa’s love, took shape of Bull

Barnabe Barnes (1569?–1609)

JOVE for EUROPA’s love, took shape of Bull;

And for CALISTO, played DIANA’s part:

And in a golden shower, he filled full

The lap of DANAE, with celestial art.

Would I were changed but to my Mistress’ gloves,

That those white lovely fingers I might hide!

That I might kiss those hands, which mine heart loves!

Or else that chain of pearl (her neck’s vain pride)

Made proud with her neck’s veins, that I might fold

About that lovely neck, and her paps tickle!

Or her to compass, like a belt of gold!

Or that sweet wine, which down her throat doth trickle,

To kiss her lips, and lie next at her heart,

Run through her veins, and pass by Pleasure’s part!