Classic Poem

One of the three LADIES above mentioned .

I.

'T IS true that Paris was a beau,
But yet was not polite;
For he on Ida's top could show
To two bright nymphs a slight.

II.

Three fair ones begg'd him to decide
Which was the greatest beauty —
He might have sooth'd each lady's pride
And yet have done his duty.

III.

To one he might have given shape ,
And piercing eyes to t'other;
Then had he made a good escape,
And sav'd a mighty pother.

IV.

Minerva then had dwelt in peace,
And J uno , without passion,
Have caus'd a ten years war to cease,
And fav'd old Priam 's nation.

V.

Young Damon , in a like dispute,
Took care to shun a quarrel;
He try'd each lady's taste to suit,
And gave to each the laurel.

VI.

Had one alone obtain'd the bays ,
And wit's bright prize have borne,
The other two, throughout their days,
The willow must have worn.