ACCORDING to an ancient legend, the first man was made by
Jupiter, the first bull by Neptune1, and the first house by
Minerva. On the completion of their labors2, a dispute arose as
to which had made the most perfect work. They agreed to appoint
Momus as judge, and to abide3 by his decision. Momus, however,
being very envious4 of the handicraft of each, found fault with
all. He first blamed the work of Neptune because he had not made
the horns of the bull below his eyes, so he might better see
where to strike. He then condemned5 the work of Jupiter, because
he had not placed the heart of man on the outside, that everyone
might read the thoughts of the evil disposed and take precautions
against the intended mischief6. And, lastly, he inveighed7 against
Minerva because she had not contrived8 iron wheels in the
foundation of her house, so its inhabitants might more easily
remove if a neighbor proved unpleasant. Jupiter, indignant at
such inveterate9 faultfinding, drove him from his office of judge,
and expelled him from the mansions10 of Olympus.
