BALLAD. (Our Jupiter has near his throne)

Our Jupiter has near his throne Two vessels which he fills, The one with benefits alone, The other crams with ills:

From the good vessel, health, content, Plenty and bliss he gives, While from the evil forth are sent Gout, stone, and scolding wives.

Thus to mankind with heedful care, In just proportion weighed, The lot to each, each best can bear, By Jove's decree's conveyed:

Unless his patience when to rub, Juno the devil drives, Then headlong from the left hand tub, Go troops of scolding wives.

Oft this complaint on me, like air, From men still passed away, Till that same type of Juno there Let loose her tongue to day:

But now entreating Jove I'll go, To chequer not their lives With any other spot of woe, Who're plagued with scolding wives.