Classic Poem

Proud of his hundred eyes of glossy grain,
That watch'd in Argus once, but now are set
Firm in the streamers of his ample train,
The Peacock walks beside his lowlier mate;
Or stands apart, unfolding all his state!
While, on the surface of yon glassy lake,
A snow-white swan, with sinuous neck elate,
Ruffles his shifting plumes for beauty's sake;
One seems like some fair barge, the choice design
Of spotless fancies, for a maiden's joy,
To fare on summer-waters, when thy shine;
While the other; swimming in his majesty,
Though on firm ground, that eastern bark might be,
On Cydnus rigg'd to meet Mark Antony.