Jupiter, Neptune, Minerva, and Momus

: Aesop's Fables

ACCORDING to an ancient legend, the first man was made by

Jupiter, the first bull by Neptune, and the first house by

Minerva. On the completion of their labors, a dispute arose as

to which had made the most perfect work. They agreed to appoint

Momus as judge, and to abide by his decision. Momus, however,

being very envious of the handicraft of each, found fault with

all. He first blamed the work of Neptune because
e had not made

the horns of the bull below his eyes, so he might better see

where to strike. He then condemned 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 mischief. And, lastly, he inveighed against

Minerva because she had not contrived iron wheels in the

foundation of her house, so its inhabitants might more easily

remove if a neighbor proved unpleasant. Jupiter, indignant at

such inveterate faultfinding, drove him from his office of judge,

and expelled him from the mansions of Olympus.



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