[His strong arms secure her there against him, the span of his hands warm upon her bare back, and he remembers how he had vowed to show her all that she is worth. Such an endeavor might well be a burden for how endless it seems, he like Sisyphus made to push the boulder uphill forevermore, but in his hands it feels possible. With his gaze occupied by her loveliness and his heart filled with all the small delights she brings, he has no shortage of facets which he might try to polish to a gleam that at last she shall notice.]

Can you not feel my heartbeat there against your cheek? And can you not look inside my very heart to see how truly I love you? Indeed it is for your gentleness as much as your beauty that I cherish you so, this you ought to know well. What need have I to lie therefore?

[If she purposes to protest, he continues right along.]

Come now - if we are to enjoy this morning, then what say you to a song played upon my lyre?