EACH Courtly dame or lowly lass Alike consults her looking-glass: If lovely, 'tis with satisfaction At seeing there so much attraction; If not, 'tis with a hope to trace Some latent charm of form or face, Which, helped judiciously by art, May chance to catch a wand'ring heart. No wonder, then, the Queen of Beauty, On going through such pleasing duty, One morning, when her own dear Spring 5 10 Which, though the world it held subjected, By her was only seen reflected. The mirror Venus looked upon Was held by her attendant son, 15 He thought 'twas just the time to ask A boon in virtue of his task, And cried, "Mamma, I do so wish 25 "That you would take me out to fish. "You know you promised long ago "Your darling son that sport to show; "And now, I'm sure, you can't say nay, "You look so beautiful to-day." The latter well-placed argument Home to the Goddess' feelings went; And, parting Cupid's golden hair With rose-tipped fingers long and fair, 30 |