Snowdrops from a Curate’s Garden

[92] III THE PARSON’S PRAYER There was a priest who took much pleasure In amorous discourse o’night. His only sorrow — that a measure Was placed unto his might. He prayed — let not his words escape us ! — Unto Priapus. “ Thou God whom constantly I serve (As constantly as any can) Endow me with more strenuous nerve, Make me a mightier man ! Increase my powers of ejection ! Grant me more erection ! ” The god took heed unto his prayer — A faithful servant deserves pay — Yet, pondering, fingers run through hair, He curtly answered “ Nay ” His suppliant, wrathful, then departed Half broken-hearted. But Mercury had chanced to listen While these remarks were being made. His mischief-loving eyeballs glisten. He touched the man, and said : “ Priapus is an old curmudgeon ! Go not in dudgeon ! ”