Divider from 'The Black Bird', an undated Scottish chapbook with no printing information
The HAPPY MARRIAGE.
How blest has my time been? what joys have I known?Since wedlock's soft bondage made Jessey my own,So joyful my heart is, so easy my chain,That freedom is tasteless, and roving a pain.That freedom is tasteless, &c.
Thro' walks grown with woodbines as often we stray,Around us our boys do frolick and play,How pleasing their sport is! the wanton one's see,And borrow their looks from my Jessey and me.
To try her sweet temper, oft times am I seen,In revels all day with the nymphs of the green:Though painful my absence my doubts she beguiles,And meets me at night with complacence and smiles.
What though on her cheeks the rose loses its hue,Her wit and good humour blooms all the year thro';Time still, as he flies, adds increase to her truth,And gives to her mind what he steals from her youth.
Ye shepherds so gay who make love to ensnareAnd cheat with false vows, the too credulous Fair;In search of true pleasure, how vainly you roam,To hold it for life, you must find it at home.
