VI. The cruel Nero used on golden hook

Robert Tofte (1561–1620)

THE CRUEL NERO used on golden hook,

The harmless fish to catch with sugared bait:

So courteous LOVE, fishing, me quickly took;

Whilst he with dainty prey for me did wait.

Yet far more fortunate am I in this:

For whereas NERO’s hooks most sharp did kill;

The other hooks revive the taken fish,

Whilst they do hold him gently by the gill.

But hooks they are none! For hooks they are too fair!

Two golden tresses be they of fine hair!