10 APRIL 1875, Page 18

POETRY.

CLEOPATRA'S MIRROR.

You have a thousand slaves, who do Unwillingly their duty ;

And I one service have for you,— To image back your beauty ; But that one service is so sweet, I would in it my life might fleet.

Your other slaves say you are stern ; I always see you smiling, As from me some new grace you learn Your lovers for beguiling.

Those slaves, did they but win as I Your smiles, would dare thrice o'er to die.

Oh, would you that all lands should pass Beneath your firm subjection !

Then deem the world your looking-glass, And made for your reflection.

Did you but smile on men as me, The whole world should in bondage be. . F. W. B.