And the father of gods took his hand in his, and kissed his face and said to him, "At no time, my son, hast thou regarded me with due honour.

Often hast thou vexed my bosom, wherein lies the disposition of the stars, with those busy darts of thine.

Nevertheless, because thou hast grown up between these mine hands, I will accomplish thy desire." And straightway he bade Mercury call the gods together; and, the council-chamber being filled, sitting upon a high throne, "Ye gods," he said, "all ye whose names are in the white book of the Muses, ye know yonder lad.

It seems good to me that his youthful heats should by some means be restrained.

And that all occasion may be taken from him, I would even confine him in the bonds of marriage.