CUPID MISTAKEN
Reading edition
As after noon, one summer’s day, Venus stood bathing in a river, Cupid a-shooting went that way, New strung his bow, new filled his quiver. With skill he chose his sharpest dart, With all his might his bow he drew; Swift to his beauteous parent’s heart The too well-guided arrow flew. “I faint! I die!” the goddess cried; “O cruel, couldst thou find none other To wreak thy spleen on? Parricide! Like Nero, thou hast slain thy mother.” Poor Cupid sobbing scarce could speak: “Indeed, mamma, I did not know ye; Alas! how easy my mistake; I took you for your likeness, Cloe.” Matthew Prior.
