Joys of the harvest/Fair Susanna

For other versions of this work, see Fair Susanna.

FAIR SUSANNA.

ASK if yon damask rose be sweet,
that scents the ambient air,
Then ask each shepherd that you meet,
if dear Susanna’s fair.

Say, will the vulture quit his prey,
and warble thro’ the grove!
Bid wanton linnets quit the spray,
then doubt thy shepherd’s love.

The spoils of war let heroes share,
let pride and splendor shine;
Ye bards, unenvy’d laurels wear,
be fair Susanna mine.

FINIS.