Opera Serse [Xerxes, HWV 40] - Act I - Ombra mai fu [Never was a shade]
Italian libretto:
Frondi tenere e belle del mio platano amato per voi risplenda il fato. Tuoni, lampi, e procelle non v'oltraggino mai la cara pace, nè giunga a profanarvi austro rapace.
Ombra mai fu di vegetabile, cara ed amabile, soave più.
Translation:
Tender and beautiful fronds of my beloved plane tree, let Fate smile upon you. May thunder, lightning, and storms never bother your dear peace, nor may you by blowing winds be profaned.
A shade there never was, of any plant, dearer and more lovely, or more sweet.