Classic Poem

On her X birthday. Belle semper eadem

PUELLA PULCHRA

Time, by Julia's face enchanted,
Made with Love a bargain rare;
These the terms that Eros granted
In the interest of his fair:
When old Chronos, in his yearly
Round, must visit beauty's queen,
Love should turn the glass, while idly
Time would bask beneath her een —
Julia being then sweet 'steen.

UXOR PULCHRIOR

Cupid, cunning rogue, delighted
At the chance to cheat his foe,
Bound the pact with kisses plighted —
This was several years ago.
Of the scheme no doubt that you'll u-
Nite in saying: " Well we ween
'Gainst the charms of Ladye Julia
Love's put time in quarantine —
Julia 'll always be sweet 'steen! "

MATRE PULCHERRIMA

Since, in all the white Decembers,
For this day doth Chronos yearn;
Love sets the glass, then straight remembers
Back the dial's hand to turn.
So old Tempus, edax rerum,
May not mar the peerless sheen
Of her beauty. Dixi verum.
This is why I envy ... —
Julia's always lovely 'steen!