ANSWER BY LAURA, One of the THREE LADIES above mentioned

'Tis true that Paris was a beau, But yet was not polite; For he on Ida's top could show To two bright nymphs a slight.

Three fair ones begg'd him to decide Which was the greatest beauty— He might have sooth'd each lady's pride And yet have done his duty.

To one he might have given shape, And piercing eyes to t'other; Then had he made a good escape, And sav'd a mighty pother.

Minerva then had dwelt in peace, And JUNO, without passion, Have caus'd a ten years war to cease, And sav'd old Priam's nation.

Young Damon, in a like dispute, Took care to shun a quarrel; He try'd each lady's taste to suit, And gave to each the laurel.

Had one alone obtain'd the bays, And wit's bright prize have borne, The other two, throughout their days, The willow must have worn.