each in her turn trying, by promise of great reward, to persuade him to
declare in her favor. Juno spoke first, and she offered to bestow kingly
power and immense wealth upon Paris, if he would award the prize to her.

"She to Paris made
Proffer of royal power, ample rule
Unquestion'd. . . . . . . .
'Honor,' she said, 'and homage, tax and toll,
From many an inland town and haven large.'"

Minerva next addressed the judge, and she promised him great wisdom and
knowledge, as well as success in war, if he would give the apple to her.

Then Venus approached the young prince, who all the while held the
golden prize in his hand. She had but few words to say, for she was
confident in the power of her beauty and the tempting bribe she was
about to offer.

"She with a subtle smile in her mild eyes,
The herald of her triumph, drawing nigh
Half-whisper'd in his ear, 'I promise thee
The fairest and most loving wife in Greece.'
She spoke and laugh'd."

The subtle smile and the whispered promise won the heart of Paris.
Forgetful of Œnone, and disregarding the promises of the other
goddesses, he awarded the prize to Venus.

He consign'd
To her soft hand the fruit of burnished rind;