OF TEMPER.
19
To live untouch'd by subtle Spleen requires
The ceaseless care of disciplin'd desires.
'Tis my fond purpose in thy form to show
The sweetest model of my skill below:
A youth I destine to thy dear embrace,
Crown'd with each mental charm, and manly grace,
With whom thy innocence, secure from strife,
Shall reap the beauteous joys of blameless life.
Pleas'd I observe thy little heart begin
To ask, what charms the mighty prize may win:
But know, tho' Elegance herself be seen
To guide thy motion, and to form thy mien;
Tho' Beauty o'er thy filial cheek diffuse
The soft enchantment of her roseate hues,
Not from their favour shall this glory rise!
Temper shall singly gain the splendid prize:
The sudden conquest shall be mine alone,
And Love with transport shall my triumph own,
Such are my hopes; but I with pain relate
What hard conditions are annexed by fate:
The ceaseless care of disciplin'd desires.
'Tis my fond purpose in thy form to show
The sweetest model of my skill below:
A youth I destine to thy dear embrace,
Crown'd with each mental charm, and manly grace,
With whom thy innocence, secure from strife,
Shall reap the beauteous joys of blameless life.
Pleas'd I observe thy little heart begin
To ask, what charms the mighty prize may win:
But know, tho' Elegance herself be seen
To guide thy motion, and to form thy mien;
Tho' Beauty o'er thy filial cheek diffuse
The soft enchantment of her roseate hues,
Not from their favour shall this glory rise!
Temper shall singly gain the splendid prize:
The sudden conquest shall be mine alone,
And Love with transport shall my triumph own,
Such are my hopes; but I with pain relate
What hard conditions are annexed by fate:
