The Negro Boy (1806, Stirling)/Vulcan's Cup

For other versions of this work, see Vulcan's Cup.

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VULCAN'S CUP.

Vulcan, contrive me such a cup
as Nestor us d of old;
Try all your art to trim it up,
and Damask it round with gold.

Carve me thereon the mantling vine,
and eke two lovely boys;
Whose limbs in amorous folds intwine,
the type of future joys.

Make it so large, when filled with sack,
up to the swelling brim;
Vast toasts on the delicious lake,
like ships at sea may swim.

Cupid and Bacchus, my gods are;
let love and wine still reign:
With wine I'll drive away dull care,
and then to my love again.