Whilenear the king, much caution Gyges showed;
          But soon the belle perceived his bosom glowed;
          She learned the cause:—­her spouse the tale disclosed,
          And laughed and jeered, as he the facts exposed: 
          A silly blockhead! not to know a queen
          Could raillery not bear on such a scene. 
          But had it pleased her wishes, still ’twere right
          (Such honour’s dictates) to discover spite;
          And this she truly did, while in her mind,
          To be revenged she fully was inclined.

          Foronce, good reader, I should wish thee wife;
          Or otherwise, thou never can’st in life,
          Conceive the lengths a woman oft will go,
          Whose breast is filled with wrath and secret woe. 
          A mortal was allowed these charms to view,
          Which others’ eyes could never dare pursue. 
          Such treasures were for gods, or rather kings
          The privilege of both are beauteous things.

          Thesethoughts induced the queen revenge to seek;
          Rage moved her breast, and shame possessed her cheek. 
          E’en Cupid, we are told, assistance gave;
          What from his aim effectually can save? 
          Fair in person was Gyges to behold;
          Excuses for her easy ’twere to mould;
          To show her charms, what baseness could excel? 
          And on th’ exposer all her hatred fell. 
          Besides, he was a husband, which is worse
          With these each sin receives a double curse. 
          What more shall I detail?—­the facts are plain: 
          Detested was the king:—­beloved the swain;
          All was accomplished, and the monarch placed
          Among the heroes who with horns are graced;
          No doubt a dignity not much desired,
          Though in repute, and easily acquired.

          Suchmerit had the prince’s folly got,
          ‘In petto’, Vulcan’s brother was his lot;
          The distance thence is little to the hat: 
          The honour much the same of this or that.

          Sofar ’twas passing well, but, in the intrigue;
          The cruel Parcae now appeared to league;
          And soon the lovers, on possession bent,
          To black Cocytus’ shores the monarch sent;
          Too much of certain potions forced to drink,
          He quickly viewed the dreary, horrid brink;
          While pleasing the objects Gyges’ eyes beheld;
          And in the palace presently he dwelled,
          For, whether love or rage the widow fired,
          Her throne and hand she gave, as was required.