The Elephant and the Monkey of Jupiter

Formerly the elephant and the rhinoceros

Disputing on the light of empire

Resolved to end the combat thus—

By fighting to their heart’s desire.

The day was fixed, when it was heard,

That the monkey of Sire Jupiter

Had been seen in the air,

Poised on a cloud like any bird.

The elephant was quite convinced

That to arrange the new election,

An interest the god evinced,

And felt for him a great affection,

He went to see the monkey’s highness,

Expecting him to speak about the fight,

But not a word said monkey.

At this sight,

The elephant perceived that he must speak himself,

And so began: “Sire Jupiter,” said he,

“Between rhinoceros and me will see

A royal combat of legation;

A tournament for all the nation.

I suppose you have already heard

This news!” Said monkey, “Not a word.”

The elephant ashamed, and quite surprised,

Looked on the monkey with astonished eyes.

Said monkey, “In celestial place,

A fly or leopard are of equal race.”

“Was it not then because of us,”

Said elephant, “that you descended?”

“Nay,” said the monkey, quite offended.

“I left the heavens to share a grain of corn

Among some ants, nor knew that you were born.

We have the care of mortal things;

But all are equals in our eyes,

And at your talk I feel surprise.”