
Mercury declaring his love to Minerva, c. 1584-1637 by Chrispyn de Passe
Behold: born of Maia is he, and she, Minerva, from Jove’s mind.
He is gifted with speech; but her heart overflows with wisdom.
He has an eloquent mouth; to her, wisdom freely flows.
Here they join right hands — trust unites them.
Truly, it belongs to wisdom both to think and to speak.