Epithalamium

Vesper is here! behold Faint gleams that welcome shine! Rise from the feast, O youths, And chant the fescennine!

Before the porch we sing The hymeneal song; Vesper is here, O youths! The star we waited long.

We lead the festal groups Across the bridegroom’s porch; Vesper is here, O youths! Wave high the bridal torch.

Hail, noble bridegroom, hail! The virgin fair has come; Unlatch the door and lead Her timid footsteps home.

Hail, noble bridegroom, hail! Straight as a tender tree; Fond as a folding vine Thy bride will cling to thee.