Classic Poem

Of the force of Venus and power of Gold.

Where gold or golden Aphroditus be
Of greatest pow'r it (doubtlesse) is a doubt;
For proofe whereof, who see'th and doth not see
How they do all in all, saue heale the gowte.
Gold can make Venus yeeld (like Danaæ)
Her golden treasures to hearts' hot desire:
And Venus can make gold (in golden fee)
Obay her becke, when she sets hearts on fire.
Gold can transforme a wise man to a foole;
And fools to be esteem'd as most wise men:
So Venus in her soule-enchanting schoole
Can teach them wit, and make them fooles agen
 Yet Gold commaunds no gods, but Venus can
 Therefore I hold Venus the better man.