This Marathus himself, erewhile, made mock of lovers' moan,
Nor knew how soon the vengeful god would mark him for his own.
He also laughed at sighs and tears, and oft would make delay,
And oft a lover's fondest wish would baffle and betray.
But now on beauty's haughty ways he looks in fierce disdain;
He scarce may pass a bolted door without a secret pain.
Beware, proud girl, some plague will fall, unless thy pride give way;
Thou wilt in vain the gods implore to send thee back this day!
ELEGY THE TENTH
TO VENAL BEAUTY
Why, if my sighs thou wert so soon to scorn,
Didst dare on Heaven with perjured promise call?
Ah! not unpunished can men be forsworn;
Silent and slow the perjurer's doom shall fall.
Ye gods, be merciful! Oh! let it be
That beauteous creatures who for once offend
Your powers divine, for once may go scot-free,
Escape your scourge, and make some happy end!
'Tis love of gold binds oxen to the plough,
And bids their goading driver sweat and chide;
The quest of gold allures the ship's frail prow
O'er wind-swept seas, where stars the wanderers guide.
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