Soft Cupid, wanton, amorous boy, <br />The other day, moved with my lyre, <br />In flattering accents spoke his joy, <br />And uttered thus his fond desire. <br /> <br />Oh! raise thy voice, one song I ask, <br />Touch then th' harmonious string; <br />To Thyrsis easy is the task, <br />Who can so sweetly play and sing. <br /> <br />Two kisses from my mother dear, <br />Thyrsis, thy due reward shall be; <br />None, none like Beauty's queen is fair; <br />Paris has vouch'd this truth for me. <br /> <br />I straight reply'd, thou know'st alone, <br />That brightest Cloe rules my breast, <br />I'll sing thee two instead of one <br />If thou'lt be kind and make me blest. <br /> <br />One kiss from Cloe's lips, no more <br />I crave. He promised me success; <br />I play'd with all my skill and power, <br />My glowing passion to express. <br /> <br />But, oh! my Cloe, beauteous maid, <br />Wilt thou the wish'd reward bestow? <br />Wilt thou make good what Love has said, <br />And by thy grant his power show?<br /><br />Matthew Prior<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/cupid-s-promise-paraphrased/
