Classic Poem

Occasion'd by some late Persecutions

I.

Goddess of the Cyprian Plains,
Where, in Ages blest, and free,
Willing Nymphs , and happy Swains
Own'd your great Divinity!

II.

While, to idle Mars resign'd,
You indulge his softer Fire,
Lo! your Matrons , whipt, and fin'd,
At your slow Revenge admire.

III.

Still shall Impotence, and Age,
Under Virtue 's rigid Face,
Nature 's Laws, and yours ingage,
And your sacred Rites disgrace?

IV.

While, like hunted Thieves , at Night
Your poor, trembling Vo'tries meet
In some wretched Garret 's Hight,
Or some Cellar 's vile Retreat.

V.

Venus , haste; exert your Sway,
Leave your God , and golden Bow'r:
Heav'n and Earth did once obey
Cytherea 's mighty Pow'r

VI.

Where are all those Altars now,
With a thousand Offsprings crown'd,
Where no Mortal paid his Vow,
But your Aid propitious found?

VII.

Rise! o'er hated Foes prevail!
Lest your former Glories seem
Or some drunken Bedlam 's Tale,
Or some wanton Poet 's Dream.