Classic Poem

Once Vulcan at the Lemnian forges making
Arrows for Cupid, skilfully of steel,
The new-made weapons Cytherea taking
Their points in honey dipped, for lover's weal.

But Cupid mingled gall: Once Mars returning
Full armed and flushed from the red field of war,
A massy spear he brandished, and discerning
Love's shafts he said, " What trifling toys these are! "

But Cupid said, " When you've received this arrow
You'll find it heavy, " whereupon he went
And gave it to the war-god; its touch to his marrow
A sharp thrill sent; Cypris her merriment

In vain strove to conceal. Mars had already
Within his breast felt Love's delicious pain.
" Heavy indeed it is, come take it, " said he —
But Cupid, " As a gift keep what you've ta'en. "