So the comparison, though peculiarly English, is very fine.

Also there is a suggestion of the soundlessness of the moth's flight.

Now "showy as damask rose" is a striking simile only because the damask-rose is a wonderfully splendid flower--richest in colour of all roses in English gardens.

"Shy as musk" is rather a daring simile.

"Musk" is a perfume used by English as well as Japanese ladies, but there is no perfume which must be used with more discretion, carefulness.