GALLANTRY A-la-mode, A SATTRICAL POEM, In III PARTS.  
Representing the Vanities of several Humours of this present Age.  
Semel insanivimus omnes.  
LONDON, Printed by T. R. & N. T. for the Author, and are to be Sold by Booksellers, Anno Domini, 1674.   

TO THE READER.  
WHo ever thou art if thou darest be so bold (after the Title Page to proceed, expect nothing of Seriousness in this Discourse, that being altogether as great a stranger to this Extravagant Age, as Civility and good Manners amongst the rudest Barbarians. And therefore those Persons that value themselves upon their own Sobriety, (alias Hypocrisy) who can relish no Discourses but what are writ against the present Government, are forewarned that this was never Calculated for the Meridian of their Brains. With those I have not designed much to concern myself, accounting them so inconsiderable, that a Jeer is but cast away upon them: but the brisk airy Humours of both Sexes in this flourishing Town shall be constant Subjects of my P●n. ●is for their Diversions that I have transformed myself, (for I am resolved to put on as many shapes as ever Proteus did) into the form of a young Gallant raw and unfledged, and newly come to Town; and no sooner there but entered into a Bawdy-house, and one of such an Inferior Rank that I can make no more Excuse for myself, than he that having a handsome Wife with all the commendable Qualities that may be required in one of that Sex, forsakes her Company for the impertinent Conversation of a dirty Kitchenwench. Reader, I believe thy Ears itch to know who 'tis I mean now; but no matter for that, I have lately read some where, and I think 'twas in a Play, that to name a person, (one designs to set forth) is not like a Cavalier. I am resolved to take that adulce, and therefore thou must excuse me if I fail in the satisfaction of thy Longing; but let it suffice thee that it is not improbable, but that there may be such a person, & also such a person as I design in my First Part. In the Second Part I have transformed myself into One, whose many Extravagancies have proeured him a little dear-bought Experience, and is now arrived at a higher pitch of Gallantry, (or Debauchery, no great matter which, for at this time they may be Converted without a Solecism) and briskly attacks a young Girl, that I am resolved to call Phillis, whose Youth is not only adorned with Beauty, but Wit, ay, and (as ill-luck will have it) with Virtis ● too: which makes the matter very difficult, and the greater Novel, for had she been one that would have accepted of a Coach and six Horses, or a House richly furnished with a large Exhibion, etc. thoul'ts have said this is a common thing, and every day practised; but to make a Woman to be Debauched upon the account of pure Love in this Age, I'll assure thee is a very great Rarity. Yet don't despair Reader, thou mayst bring such a thing to pass thyself (if thou hast a mind to it) if thou choosest as fit an Agent for thy purpose as I did, and hast as much command of thy passion, and beest not overhasty; Ars magni sceleris gradus requirit nec cito fit Magister, which I might English thus, That it is as difficult to be thoroughly bad, as 'tis to be singularly good: There mayst thou see Virtue tempted in the highest manner, and at last overcome, which could I with as much probability have found a Refuge for it in its last Extremity, it had been certainly done; but I'll assure thee amongst all the Relations which I have lately received (which have been of no small number) I have not found any Intrigue, (unless it has been spoiled in the management) but has taken effect, maugre all the resistance of Wit and Virtue. And lest some should take Exception that there should be so much said of one Vice, and nothing of another (altogether as common) called Drinking, I have in the Third Part transformed myself into one who commits those Extravagancies he never intended, wherein all Persons may see that neither the tie of Friendship, nor the consideration of Age or Sex is able to restrain the Violence of a Drunken passion; 'tis the Excess of that which is the Bane of all good Company, and makes those Sots hither acceptable to themselves, nor others. And now having thus given thee a brief account of what is contained in these Parts, thou may'st expect some Reasons why I Wrote them, but truly Reader, those things have been altogether discontinued by our late writing Authors, and I am very unwilling to introduce the Custom. And now I shall speak a Word to those (if there should be any such) that may seem concerned at any thing in this Poetry: let them first for their satisfaction know, that they are not certain whether they are the Persons intended, every Humour being applicable to a great many, though it may so fall out to be applied to some more particularly; Next (if this will not satisfy them) let them consider I might have said much more than I did, and as I have spared them 'twill be but Equity and Justice for them to spare me: Lastly, (if nothing will satisfy them) let them one turn the buckles of their Girdles behind them, confess those things whereof they are accused, and then let the whole World be Judge, and give fools Caps to those that shall best deserve them. Next I should make an Apology for myself, (and I believe it will be thought by some there is much need of one) concerning the mean thoughts that I may seem to have of the Female Sex in General: Let those know that I am not of their Opinion that think there is, not a Virtuous Woman; my own Experience can testify to the contrary, and I wish (not withstanding what is here written) their number may be still increased. If any shall tax me for speaking of Marriage more slightingly then becomes the dignity of that Condition. I would have those to understand me to have meant Poetically, that is according to the practice of some of our modern Poets (for I will not warrant myself to be Armour of proof against such a Temptation) who as to this may be resembled to Atheists, who seldom Dye before they have changed their Opinions: so they, after they have drained themselves dry for Wit and Raillery to expose their so much contemned state of Matrimony, yet nevertheless run themselves headlong into that Trap which they would seem to forewarn the whole World to avoid. Likewise if any shall be offended at the Matter herein contained, as being too scurrilous for their nicer Ears; let them know that I as much contemn and detest as they do, or can, all Discourses which have nothing else to embellish their wit or Language, but obscene and fill thy Expressions, which I hope none in direct terms can find here, whatever their politic understandings may discover to be implied, of which to excuse myself, I might turn Approver to most of our Modern Wits and Writers, repeat something out of the late Prologues, and Epilogues, that have been received with such applause from the Public Theatres, were I minded to be so foolishly malicious (although I might plead Example for it) to think to conceal my own Faults, by the discovering of other men's. I hope the candidly Ingenious will find nothing more here than what the Nature of Satyrical Drollery may permit, or the Characters of such like Persons (here intended) may justly require; And I question not but that they, as well as I, would think that Painter guilty of a very gross mistake who should produce a Saint, where he first designed a Devil. Lastly, I fear (notwithstanding what I have hitherto said) some Persons will Object, That I might have been better employed, then thus to expose my person (if I should be known) to Obloquy and scandal; The truth of it is, Reader, I am more concerned at this, then at any thing else that will be said against my Book, and I do assure thee could I have procur' myself a better employment, thou hadst never been troubled with me: as for the scandal, I am almost of the Opinion of that ingenious Comedian, that infamy is as hard to get as Preferment; I am sure that hitherto I have found it so, and am resolved to hold on thy course of Writing till I shall be convinced of my Error one way or other.   

TO THE MEN,  

YOu'd fain be flattered, not one Word,  
Nor Dedication to a Lord;  
Were not that way of Writing Old,  
Yet th' ' Author dares not be so bold;  
Lest that with some the Quaere be,  
Who's more to blame, the Lord, or Herald  
Expect not here some gaudy Scene,  
To tell you what the Book doth mean;  
But your dear Vices overlook,  
And them you'll find composed the Book.  
'Twas not produced from either House,  
Where Mountain groans, and Teems a Mouse;  
Where you seem Charmed on Fairy Ground,  
With Listening to the thundering Sound  
Of Words you catch at the Rebound.  
There you'e been told what ne'er was True,  
(At least will not be so with You;)  
But otherwise you're handled here,  
Where you in Uizard Masques appear:  
And well you know much Truth is said  
Under Disguise of Masquerade.    

TO THE LADIES.  

Lady's what e'er to Men is due,  
The Author owes Respect to you;  
'Tis your fair Sex that he Adores,  
On whom he practised his Amours.  
He lays his Phillis at your Feet,  
In hopes your milder Doom to meet;  
Pardon her Youth, 'twas but aslip,  
The surest Foot may sometimes trip;  
At least confer her Punishment  
On him your humble Penitent.  
Who willingly would for her sake  
As great a satisfaction make  
As you can possible desire,  
Or his Offence might well require.  
He hopes by this to set you free,  
From your own Sex's Treachery.  
Be true amongst yourselves; and then  
You're safe beyond the Wit of Men.  
If he that Citizen preserved,  
Receive a Crown for his Reward;  
More to that man must needs be due  
Who City saves, in saving you.    

GALLANTRY A-la-mode,  
PART I.  

Oppressed with Cares, involved with Night,  
I went to seek a new Delight.  
My clouded Eyes could scarcely show  
My treacherous Feet which way to go.  
At length with Halts & trembling Pace,  
Before I wished, th'approached the Place;  
Then troubled Thoughts did make me doubt,  
'Twixt going in, and coming out.  
But when Desire the Bait had laid,  
I willingly myself betrayed;  
And boldly I am entered in  
The Place accustomed unto Sin.  
And well might guests by Farthing light  
Those that came There played least in sight.  
Next little Volume I did see,  
Which There will never practised be.  
Upon a Shelf a Pipkin stood,  
That did contain some three days Food;  
For Gruel is their chiefest Meat,  
Nor better can afford to Eat:  
For most of what they get This Day.  
Must Constable or Beadle pay  
The next, and bribed Law must be  
A Pimp to their Debauchery.  
At last grave Matron me accosts,  
With Looks more sharp than Greenland Frosts,  
And like that Earth when Day is done  
Neglected by the Half Years Sun,  
Methought I looked. Says she y'are bold,  
My bolted Hatch might make you hold  
Your Hand before you it unpin;  
I keep no Alehouse, nor no Inn.  
Hereafter I will have a Lock,  
Then those that come to me must Knock.  
I never saw You here before,  
Your Token else go out of Dore.  
I thought when rattled at that rate,  
She Breeding learned at Billingsgate.  
And answered, 'Twas not my intent  
Your Privacy to circumvent,  
But thought when in Jack— Name  
I came, you would not boldness blame.  
He told me whispering in my Ear,  
Convenient boldness was taught here.  
He that can such a Token show,  
My close Intrigues (saith she) shall know  
Pleasures I have that Tongue can't tell  
And Courts me to go up to Hell.  
Then crazy Staircase we ascend,  
Where largely she do'● Wine commend  
And by her Simpering would disclose  
That Money first I must depose.  
Though Cully was, yet I could scent  
The drift of this her Compliment.  
And humoured it, and then away  
In haste she goes, whilst I Survey  
What Furniture above was placed,  
Curtains and Vallains so disgraced  
With Rags, and Jaggs, and Tatters were,  
Ten Thousand Beggars I may swear  
Though dressed with Art, and utmost Spite,  
Can never show me such a Sight.  
If thus the outward case be decked,  
What's hid within I must inspect;  
And turned down Sheets e'en covered o'er  
With Plastered Filth, and putrid Gore.  
Pandora's box did ne'er compress  
Such various kinds of Nastiness.  
Next Blankets pinked with Sally-Ports,  
For Lice, and Fleas to manage sports.  
I had not yet o're-lookt the Quilt,  
But up comes Bawd with Wine, and Jilt.  
Stone-Bottle than she holdeth out,  
And cries, now let us drink about:  
Come here's a Health unto the best.  
(And you that please make out the rest)  
Once round, and Bottle does departed,  
Scarcely so hollow as her Heart.  
When such a Cheat did make me stare,  
This Wine's so good 'tis turned to Air.  
She smiling says, but hang't, since we  
Are now such pleasant Company:  
The t'other Bottle is not much,  
Let ill-bred Clowns their Money grudge.  
Then down the Stairs she posts away,  
Whilst I above with Tit do stay.  
And 'twas a pleasant Sight to see  
How with affected Modesty  
She wheadeled, when I did intrude  
With Hand, or Foot, pray Sir! you're rude.  
Love's Fire did kindle, but not burn,  
The old one made so quick return.  
When Bottle had gone former's fate,  
Then she of Jilt began to prate.  
It may be Sir you'll think what I  
Do now relate, may seem a Lie,  
I must confess I've told a few:  
By all that's secret this is true.  
This little Rogue that now you see,  
From Country came last Week to me.  
Methinks I see what pretty Feats  
She showed, stroking of Mullys Teats:  
And then a tickling Sonnet sings;  
But here she learneth better things.  
Look on her well, survey each Part,  
This is no Beauty made by Art.  
Let painted Bitch's boast their stains,  
Brisk Blood runs sporting through these Veins.  
At Giffords', Creswels and elsewhere  
Where precise Damsel does appear,  
Perhaps 've been, no greater Cheat  
Is shown, than Lady spruce, and neat.  
Lick makes the Corals of her Lips,  
And he that Kisses Plaster sips.  
I smile to think how oft y'are mumped,  
In clapping Cheeks with Engines plumped.  
False-Eye-brows, and false-shade of Hair,  
When one and t●other Place is bare.  
If urgent you be for to know  
Th' occasion of its being so,  
Confounded Lie she straight will fain;  
How that she Travelled once to Spain:  
And large account gives of a Lord  
That kept her there at bed, and board,  
And by the Custom of that Place,  
The smoothest Skin has greatest grace;  
Highly praising of that Nation,  
For keeping still one constant Fashion:  
To show her Travels, Breeding, State,  
In this, she them will imitate.  
Thus oft she Cullies may deceive,  
But somewhat else 'twas by your leave:  
And though of it she won't be known,  
The Clap was got from Spanish Don.  
If still you like such a Bald-coot,  
Take her with Clap and Pox to boot.  
Let my Persuasions make you wise,  
Be not Trapan'd with those damned Lies.  
Try mine once, then tell me whether  
You like best; and go together.  
No sooner said, but she is gone,  
And I with Tempter left alone.  
Whilst I resolved to fly those Eyes,  
My Soul was taken by Surprise:  
Unusual Flames my Heart had fired,  
Nor could I tell what I desired.  
As tender Maid that ne'er had known  
Th' effects which from fierce Love have grown  
With lingering Sickness pines away,  
And makes a Night, before 'twas Day,  
Of rosy Beauty: whilst that she  
Amazed at her Infirmity,  
It's growing Rage would fain prevent;  
But alas poor Soul she's Innocent:  
Now longs for this, and now for that,  
So I desired I knew not what.  
And fearing lest she might deny,  
Unasked I gave Gratuity:  
And said, You guess what 'tis I want,  
Since I do give, 'tis you must grant  
A Favour, which I would conceal,  
But Love compels me to reveal:  
That Tyrant o'er my Heart doth reign,  
And only you can suage my pain.  
Then with a smile she kisses me,  
And off falls vizard Modesty:  
If I (says she) can give you ease,  
I will be kind, and what you please;  
Make no delay, but straight fulfil  
Your own Desire: do what you will.  
As one that ne'er knew nought but Night,  
When suddenly is brought to Light;  
Fears for to see, nor dares to wink,  
And knows not what to do, or think:  
So ne'er before known  sex,  
Did strangely then my thoughts perplex.  
Nature brute Creatures taught the way,  
But I more ignorant than they;  
If ne'er had gone to such a School,  
Still might have lived, and died a Fool:  
For by the kind Nymphs sole direction,  
Pleasure was brought to perfection.  
But now I slight when it is o'er,  
What I built Altars to before,  
Blaming myself, and wondering why  
I took this Opportunity;  
To run a Tilt at such a Tit:  
Who neither Beauty had, nor Wit.  
You'll say She ne'er could me infect,  
If Reason had my Passion checked.  
So Boul of Water if i'th' way,  
A little Flame perhaps may stay;  
But raging Lust once taken the Field,  
Who is so strong that will not yield:  
In vain does Reason watch and ward,  
For from its blow there is no guard.  
So Lady Beauty does display,  
To gaudy Fop in St. Jame's Way;  
(Whilst he with boon Grace would set out  
His flaxen Wig and ruby Snout,  
And seems to cough, and then to spit:  
And fain would void something of Wit.)  
With ease his Mulb'ry Treat blows off,  
And for his Courtship, gives him scoff:  
Returned back from whence she came,  
On quilted Couch increased a Flame;  
Which with such Fury began to rage,  
Discretion was too weak t'assuage:  
Stung with Desire, so long denied,  
Let's Butler, or the Coachman ride.  
No longer Nymph could me detain,  
Her charming Wheadles now are vain.  
But Oh Misfortune! Oh hard hap!  
When I suspect an after Clap,  
And on serious Inquisition  
Find a just cause for my Suspicion:  
Never She Zealot turned up Eine,  
Receiving Brother's Discipline:  
Or antic Gestures showed as I,  
Reduced to such Extremity.  
Faintly to die is Folly's part,  
Wisdom will seek to Man of Art;  
Artist I sought, and quickly found  
One that could do; not make a sound  
Of mighty Cures: and vainly boast,  
More than his Papers on the Post.  
Him I resolved should try his Skill,  
And after Bolus, then came Pill:  
By his Advice so soon 'twas o'er,  
I doubted what I ailed before;  
Yet th' Artist will not set at nought,  
Had I ailed nothing but in thought.  
Spark may cause Flame if not withstood,  
And from a Twig may come a Wood  
Suspicion than I washed away,  
With old Langoon, and cleansing Whey.  
And grieved at my Folly past,  
For such a Feast, kept Twelvemonths Fast.    

GALLANTRY A-la-mode,  
PART II.  

SPring had revealed its long hid store,  
The Earth with Flowrs embroidered o'er.  
When Phillis first 'gan to disclose  
The blushing sweets of budding Rose.  
Who e'er had seen her sparkling Eye,  
Dart Innocence with Majesty.  
Or from her Lip proceed a smile,  
That might an Anchorite beguile.  
Would say; Nature designed each grace  
A Pattorn in her matchless Face.  
Her I behold with winged Desire,  
The more I look, still more admire,  
This Object of my wondering Eyes,  
I vowed should be a Sacrifice  
To Love's great God: nor will I doubt,  
Arts, Stratagems, shall bringed about.  
Dangers and Hazards I'll not fear,  
Though terrifying they appear;  
Or Death in opposition stood:  
For her I'll pass through Seas of Blood.  
Acquaintance was my first Design,  
And that once gained she is half mine.  
A Dancing School I did frequent,  
Where to be Scholar she was sent;  
In Hopes that once good Breeding may  
Advance her to a Wedding Day.  
She knew not yet that Place is made  
Public Exchange, for private Trade.  
Or what fine Madams came to seek,  
At those brisk Meetings twice a Week.  
Nor could she cast an amorous Glance.  
As Prologue for another Dance.  
Her small Experience was not come  
Tothth' Mystery of th' retiring Room.  
My Flame is smothered whilst I take  
Counsel when fittest 'tis to speak.  
At last conclude to win this Mate,  
I need a female Advocate.  
When long I thought, and none could find,  
Dispair had seized my troubled Mind.  
But half Dead Hopes receive new Life,  
When I remember Master's Wife.  
None was so fit as that old Sinner,  
To seduce this young beginner.  
Boldly my Passion I relate,  
For she with me was intimate.  
Nor could I fear she'd not regard,  
When I gave Gold for her reward:  
And vowed a further thankfulness,  
If Fortune crowned her with Success.  
No Fire to Stubble e'er inclined,  
Blown by the Lungs of blustering Wind:  
Or Traveller made haste to shroud  
From pendant Storm of teeming Cloud  
More readily than she addressed  
Her Heart, and Soul to make me blest.  
Courage (she says) Designs I've laid,  
Have many Maidenheads betrayed;  
Nor shall fair Phillis rest secure,  
Whilst I know how for to procure.  
You'd think me Courtier should I say,  
I understand the rising way:  
Fear not (like them that I will fail,)  
You in your Wishes shall prevail.  
Phillis and I with often meeting,  
More familiar were in greeting,  
Proud am I of her lest Commands;  
And softly gripe her lily Hands:  
For yet we caused no fainting Qualms,  
By intermixing melting Palms.  
Boldness in bud had just began  
To catch at Handkerchief, or Fan.  
These were our first fond Fooleries,  
Leading to Love's higher Mysteries.  
But now my trusty Soul unmasks  
Concealed Designs, and Phillis asks,  
If such a Gallant she would take,  
And him her constant Servant make.  
Nature had not been so unkind  
T' adorn her Face, and not her Mind;  
But in composing thought her fit  
For double Beauty triple Wit.  
Her Judgement, sharper than her Eye,  
Discovers vailed Mystery;  
And whilst a Blush her Cheeks doth slain,  
She from all passion does refrain;  
At length no longer she could hold,  
But says, Thou that in Vice growest old,  
Base Wretch, shame of thy sex, and age,  
Is it my Ruin must assuage  
Thy fond and covetous Desire;  
Fit Fuel for Infernal Fire:  
What if I him my Servant have,  
If I my Honour make his Slave:  
No, no, my Virgin Chastity,  
Th' enamel of my Soul shall be.  
To which the other smiling said,  
Live then a Fool; and die a Maid.  
Did you but know the proffered Prize,  
You would not it, and me despise.  
The Title of a Mistress Name,  
This Age counts Glory, not a Shame.  
It is gross Folly to deny  
The thing Preferment rises by,  
Suppose light Heels, or tempting Face,  
Prefers you to an Actress Place:  
For that when you have been thus tried,  
You'll be the better qualified.  
Or if your great Ambition be  
To tend on Chamber Drudgery  
Of Madam, that will spend the Day  
In Dressing, and the Night in Play:  
Still ne'er the worse (upon my Life)  
You'll serve for Cit ', or Chaplains Wife.  
Or if with Fop you steal away,  
You'll be but on an even lay.  
What need you stand upon repute,  
Your loss is little to the fruit  
You gain; who'd be for such a Fear,  
So foolish as to shed a Tear.  
Think but how ticklish 'tis and frail  
(Where Beauty's great and Fortune small)  
Preserving of a virtuous Name,  
Though outward Actions none can blame:  
The World will judge the same of You,  
And thought ' be false, still think it true.  
But if (as best) you'd wisely deal,  
Both may be prudent and conceal.  
At this Discourse the keenest Dart  
Of Sorrow pierced Phil's tender Heart,  
Like Pearls her Tears ran trickling down;  
Whose briny Floods Cheeks Rosebuds drown.  
Such Weeping had an Artist seen,  
From it would copy Magdaleen.  
When sobbing Sighs she could refrain,  
That might have rend hard Rocks in twain.  
Oh heavens (she said) is this my Fate,  
Give me less Love, and more of Hate.  
Then from the cursed Calumny  
Of Sland'rers Tongues, shall I be free,  
Who on my Person miss their aim;  
Dispair and kill me in my Fame.  
But I'll take Courage for one Ray  
Of Truth will drive those Fogs away.  
Such Darts will then at random fly.  
When injured Virtue gives the Lye.  
Virtue the best and only thing  
That can a true Contentment bring,  
Instead of vain, and pompous Toys;  
That give inestimable Joys:  
The loss of trifles is but small,  
What can I want, when I have all.  
Now Pardon's begged, and 'tis confessed  
'Twas not in earnest spoke, but jest:  
But only offered her to try  
How brave, and boldly she'd deny.  
To gain belief no flattering Smile  
She shows, but Weeps like Crocodile:  
Then Sighs, and gives a treacherous Kiss;  
Swearing by heavens immortal bliss,  
That 'twas her chief and whole Design  
That still with Virtue she might shine:  
He loves, but with so pure a flame;  
Marriage can only quench the same.  
(Here when poor Phillis cast her Eyes  
As wrapped in a fool's Paradise!)  
How long shall I suspected be  
To work on your Credulity?  
You cannot but believe the thing,  
By me he sends this Ruby Ring:  
Observe its lustre and you'll see,  
Its Master's blushing Modesty;  
Upon your finger let it take  
A place; and wear it for his sake.  
Can you have hoped a better fate,  
Then comely person, fair estate.  
Unless (like some) You fain would be  
Wedded to foolish property,  
Who whilst their Husband's purses share;  
Themselves at most but bywords are:  
he'll want Estate, as well as Wit,  
Whose Wife must govern him and it.  
Profuseness he nor Baseness knows,  
But what he gives freely bestows.  
Long may you then in him rejoice,  
Who of his fancy are the choice.  
When Love's compelled by needy friends,  
That make the Match for private ends:  
To patch cracked Fortunes is their care,  
And what should most, has the least share.  
Harken to him in his Desire,  
That Love, not Portion does require;  
Lovers immortalize their Names,  
When both do meet with equal flames.  
But lest that you should censured be  
For acting inconsid'rately,  
Consult your Pillow, and you'll find  
No worthier Object to your Mind.  
Here could a curious fancy tell  
What Difference 'tis 'twixt Heaven and Hell,  
Perhaps he then might slubber o'er  
How Phillis changed from what before;  
From clouded Anger so serene  
Her Countenance who e'er had seen,  
At such a sight would ravished die,  
Narcissus like with Ecstasy:  
Yet still some Grace possessed her Brow,  
And Anger did become her too:  
For now who could not but believe,  
Such Oaths a Sibil might deceive.  
Then Phillis laying Hand on Breast,  
With bashful blushing thus expressed.  
If Nature made her first Design  
That all things should in Union join,  
And caused each Element to be  
In disagreeing Harmony:  
Love that gins in sighs and tears,  
And nourished is with hopes and fears,  
Shows us in such Variety;  
Natures great works Epitome:  
Thus goes it on with powerful Hand,  
For 'tis a passion few withstand;  
Yet to the wise Virtue's a Law,  
And Honour keeps fond Love in aw●:  
These Paradoxes seem to be  
With some, but real truths with me;  
Till Honour gives me leave I shall  
Still remain deaf, though Nature call.  
Discourse at end they friendly part,  
Each satisfied of tother's Heart.  
Never Cit's Wife with liquorish Gums  
Longed for stevved Prunes, Cake, or Plums,  
As does my Agent to express  
Her late Intrigues, and strange success;  
And I as eager was as she,  
And soon found Opportunity.  
Amazed she lifts up Hands! and Eyes!  
Shall Phillis be my last best Prize?  
I've drove a Trade this Sixteen Year,  
And never yet lit of her Peer.  
For some I have no sooner set,  
But they themselves run in the Net;  
With promised Petticoat or Gown,  
Like Autumn leaves they tumble down:  
Yet Phillis all these to withstand,  
Virtue, and Honour has at hand;  
Faith I was fain to stand your Friend,  
And tell her Marriage you intent,  
I thought that You to Swear and Lie;  
Would never scruple more than I.  
Then said I, Now I plainly see  
Despair is double Misery,  
If her yourt Art cannot command,  
My towering Hopes are built on Sand.  
Where Virtue has Foundation laid,  
Honour's not easily betrayed,  
Both are by her possessed I fear,  
And spite of us will still dwell there.  
If Cost can gained, or Diligence,  
I'll ne'er grudge Labour, nor Expense ';  
Horses and Coach I'll get, though they  
Run me, and my Estate away.  
I always hate to be confined,  
My Love's as boundless as my Mind.  
Oaths are in fashion as  are,  
And graceful some think 'tis to swear;  
My Life for Phillis I would stake,  
But Oaths of Marriage none will make.  
He that thus thinks his Miss to win,  
Makes mortal of a venial Sin:  
With help of Stratagem, or Art,  
I'll ne'er refuse to act my part,  
If possible I'll gain her Heart;  
Then promise Marriage with a lie,  
Ten Thousand Deaths I'll sooner die  
By this Discourse (said she) will you  
Force me (Fool like) to tell what'● true,  
I know not how you'll act your part,  
But little of a Woman's Heart,  
I'm sure as yet you understand,  
And therefore well may be trapan'●  
Our Resolutions scarce will hold  
Longer than Ice a Minute old,  
And what you well may much admire,  
We eat that most, we most desire,  
And when in this believed we be,  
Lord how we curse Credulity.  
No Burden need we more upon  
Ourselves, than we ourselves lay on,  
When Heart must grant, and Tongue deny,  
Who can expect less Misery.  
Though some will blame the Age's vice,  
'Tis Discontent has made them nice;  
Vexation of some Chance they missed,  
Makes them in spite thus still persist.  
Others as free as Day you'll sinned,  
Provided they the World's Eye blind;  
They'll not be virtuous when they know,  
'Twill serve their turn if but thought so:  
And seeming Virtue with the best,  
Is made a Cloak to hid the rest.  
So have I known a pure Saint-breeder,  
Send for some fat and strong Flockfeeder,  
They both pretending Reformation,  
From edifying Assignation;  
But still preparing to Devotion,  
Flesh and Blood raise a Commotion;  
And from the Use of Consolation,  
They straight address to Procreation;  
Then she once smitten Hip and Thigh  
Religion drowns in Lechery:  
Of that she takes a hasty meal,  
But shows in this more active Zeal.  
Worst Actions have the best Pretence,  
All know that Reason know, or Sense;  
He that Affairs best manage can,  
You will account the craftiest Man:  
So her the wisest reckon we,  
That those things carries secretly.  
I partly guests at Phillis Mind,  
'Tis not Disdam makes her unkind;  
The Reason she doth it oppose,  
Is Fear l●st that you should disclose:  
And those in whom rests such a Fear,  
Always the faithfullest Misses are.  
She that once Custom has made bold,  
At every offer's bought and sold;  
Fops Guinny's her decoys away,  
And likes him best, that best doth pay.  
But grant Phil's Cause is real good,  
Yet still she's made of Flesh and Blood;  
Such pregnant Symptoms leave a scope,  
Whereon to build a future Hope.  
I do not doubt my new Design,  
Her very Thoughts will undermine;  
Your Courtship first shall cause Desire,  
And leave me to blow up the Fire;  
Maugre resistance then my Charms,  
Shall make you triumph in her Arms.  
Thus have I shown our female State,  
But e'er that I my ●lot relate,  
Since I have been to you so free,  
Return the like Civility.  
Would you have me (said I) confess,  
Our Sexed Faults are little less;  
Or what is Truth would have me speak,  
Though virtue's strong, our Flesh is weak:  
Who e'er will search may soon descry,  
In us as much Hypocrisy.  
Who could imagine one whose Age,  
Love's scorching Calenture might suage,  
Should every Day prodigious grow,  
As if composed of burning Snow;  
And yet none more 'gainst Lust declaims,  
And Youths Exorbitances blames;  
Or strains Hyperboles to praise  
When he was young those happy days:  
Forgets that then like him were such  
Whose Tinder fired at every touch,  
Yet thus his Thoughts will busied be,  
When he himself's the Prodigy.  
Himself he had much better take,  
And's Admirations Object make;  
Why that his Palsy, Ptissick, Gout,  
Want strength to keep that Devil out:  
Or curse Dame Nature ' cause she sent  
The Plague Desire tothth' impotent.  
Of this old Torch I've said enough,  
Now let him g'out in smoke and snuff,  
To tell shall be my next Design  
The Humours of two Friends of mine.  
One had a Miss, I think but few  
The like Accomplishments could show  
As she, or had far Country's known  
None more, and more had made their own.  
Did you affect the Air of France,  
Strait her Discourse was all Romance.  
Spanish Reservedness would you see,  
As soon she'd change to Gravity.  
Wished you for High-Dutch, Low-Dutch way,  
The Germane Princess she could play.  
Italian glance nor did she want,  
But for displeasing her Gallant.  
Oh Catholic Miss that hadst a Dart,  
For French, Dutch, Spanish, English Heart,  
Shouldst now to such Disaster come,  
To find Italian here at Home.  
One an Italian might outvie  
In raging restless Jealousy,  
None more in vain did Passion spend,  
Suspecting most his dearest Friend;  
To steer a course it was my Fate,  
Betwixt his Anger and his Hate:  
And he no Cause had for the same,  
But that I his Distrust did blame.  
So Princes always look askew  
On Those that tell them what is true.  
But now 'tis time to let him pass.  
Though jealous yet my Friend he was.  
As none more faithful was than She,  
So none deserved her less than Herald  
My other Friend a Mistress had,  
One drowned in Sorrow could make glad.  
A Miss for Beauty such a Queen  
Mine Eyes 'fore Phillis ne'er had seen.  
Whose Visage charming features decked,  
From Tyrants would have forced respect;  
Features, Proportion may give Law,  
And her Apelles well might draw  
For ●enus, as in Shape so she  
In Actions aped that Deity.  
Once 'twas my happiness to be  
In his and her good Company,  
Where I did such Reception find,  
As answered to his courteous mind;  
The Ceremony of Salute  
Pas● o'er, her Beauty made me mute;  
When he the reason asked why I  
Showed Silence, 'stead of Jollity  
As soon as I from that blessed pain  
My scattered Senses could regain,  
And those Obstructions were dismissed,  
By Beauty now turned Exorcist.  
As the same Wind does light restore,  
To Taper ravished just before;  
Or Mother charming to prevent,  
Restores him she made impotent.  
I said no wonder I'm confined,  
Silence the language of the mind;  
Such Excellence can best express,  
Where Words would rather make it less.  
The meanest Beauty Nature made,  
May be set off by such a Shade;  
When she did this perfection pay,  
Designed its praise no Natural way.  
Thus I his Miss did represent,  
When he resolved in Compliment  
Not to be outvy'd; said since you  
Something in her to like make show:  
Be free, I give you liberty,  
As far as with Civility.  
Then on her Lips the Commonwealth  
Of Beauty, he gins a Health;  
Makes me with him partaker be  
Of balmy Sweets, Love's Chemistry:  
Each that he gave was bandied back,  
We both kept time in every smack.  
But he t' oblige me more now sought,  
By outward Sense, & inward Thought;  
Unveiled her Leg above the Knee,  
That I Proportion there might see;  
There whilst I feast my greedy Eye,  
My working Fancy shapes her Thigh;  
Viewing her Calf, and slender Shank,  
I judged how swelled her ivory Flank;  
Like him that finding footsteps print,  
Chalked out the Heroes Bodies mint.  
Sleeping or waking she's my Theme,  
And all my Life one constant Dream;  
But when I Phillis looked upon,  
Those drowsy Phantasms straight were gone:  
O happy Chance that didst intrude,  
To save me from Ingratitude.  
On none she better could bestow  
Her Love, or Heart deserved to know  
Then did my Friend, who ne'er shall find  
The crooked Maeanders of her mind.  
The Sun scarce shined on such a Pair,  
Had she been true, as she was fair.  
Thus in Extremes our Passions be,  
Some too reserved, and some too free;  
Rare is that Man whose Life's a Scene,  
Can show the World the golden Mean.  
If watchful Eyes could faults prevent,  
And still preserve Miss innocent;  
Then to be jealous is but just,  
And Wisdom 'tis for to distrust:  
But when Experience proves it vain,  
What boot to hug that wracking pain;  
Miss with her freedom may prove true,  
Force, or Constraint will never do.  
So Danae though enclosed in Brass  
By golden Shower debauched was;  
When jealous Father barred Delight,  
He did but whet her Appetite.  
Thus I some Failings have made known,  
Which some perhaps might think their own.  
But now my former Thoughts revive,  
How you with Phillis will contrive?  
How as I've long desired she shall  
A Victim on Love's Altar fall?  
Which if to that blessed Sacrifice,  
That I as Priest shall Idolise;  
My lucky Stars propitious be:  
That minute gives Eternity.  
I shall no longer now delay  
Your Expectation, but the Way  
Make known (she says) that you'll confess  
Leads to desired Happiness.  
Shortly the wished for Time will come,  
When my Cornuto goes from Home;  
Him his Employment will detain,  
Whilst you your Phillis Heart may gain.  
But pray be cautious how you close,  
She'll not be won by down right blows.  
Alloy rude Courtship with Respect,  
Her Wit will else the Cheat detect.  
Unless all future hopes you'd miss,  
But on Occasion steal no Kiss;  
Upon her hand prefer your suit,  
Take not the rest but by Salute:  
He who'd possess her Beauty's spoil,  
At her own Weapon her must foil.  
Treat her with Park, Spring-garden, Play,  
Let modest mirth crown every day:  
On her you'll gain an Influence,  
When your Addresses want offence.  
No Art or Industry I'll spare,  
In managing this grand affair.  
If by persuasions it can be,  
Her Lodging she shall take with me;  
What Opportunity can do,  
Shall then be done betwixt us two.  
Were there in her all Virtues placed,  
Though so miraculously graced;  
I would not fear to overreach  
Them all: and then betray the breach.  
If but some glimmerings I find,  
That may presage a coming Mind,  
I will appoint one friendly Night,  
Shall ease your Soul, and Heart delight.  
There shall be then prepared a Treat,  
As Prologue of more pleasing Meat:  
And you shall with Frontinniack Wine,  
From Sorrows dross Phil's Heart refine:  
Her Entertainment let it be  
Mirth in its choicest Gaiety.  
When envious Time your present bliss  
Eclipses, with a parting Kiss,  
Let sobs, and sighs your speech bereave;  
As if an Age you her must leave:  
This Ceremony you must fain,  
Lest she suspect you come again;  
Then do you steal in the back way,  
And on the Bed where last you lay;  
Without least noise yourself repose,  
Till I the happy Time disclose.  
Mean while what can be done I'll do,  
That may make Phillis think of You;  
But when in Bed such tricks I'll use,  
Into a stone might Love infuse:  
I'll wrack Invention but I'll be  
Successful in this Sorcery.  
As soon as I perceive that sleep  
Does on her Temple's Gentry keep,  
And all her Faculties are found;  
Securely in those fetters bound.  
With winged Speed my steps I'll trace  
And send you to supply my Place,  
Then have I done my utmost Art;  
'Tis You must perfect the last Part:  
He that will then successless be,  
Deserves no Opportunity.  
No slave that was to Galley chained;  
When he his liberty has gained;  
With such content transported is:  
As I was with the Hopes of this.  
I hug'd her in my Arms, and said  
If I to venture be afraid,  
Let me for ever bear the Name  
Of fool: and perish in my shame.  
If with that hour your pains me bless,  
I shall not doubt i'th' least success;  
In that Extreme her Wit will fail:  
And like a Bark, o'reset with sail,  
Sink; if the Wind but puff a Gale.  
Her own ambitious Thoughts she'll blame  
For trusting to this after Game.  
My Presents, Treats, she'll call to mind,  
On what account I them designed;  
That 'twill a greater scandal make  
If she refuse, then if she take:  
If she refuse, she cannot clear  
Suspicion, why she lodged here;  
I'll say she promised and deceived,  
And then I'm sure to be believed:  
Reflecting thus her Thoughts, she'll see  
Necessity may Virtue be;  
Then run that Hazard and deny,  
She'll think it safest to comply.  
Like an Old Statesman verssed in's way,  
Finding his Faction to decay;  
In time considers that 'tis best  
To quit what was his Interest:  
Those friends whilst they stood him in stead  
He kept, when useless them he fled:  
Nor scruples so himself he save,  
Rather than Fool, to prove a Knave.  
So Phillis would the best Course take,  
And Virtue, Honour, Patterns make:  
But when they fail relies on this,  
To salve up all by proving Miss.  
Thus ended my Discourse, says she  
To what you say I do agree,  
But though I now believe you'll speed,  
Yet give me leave to say take heed.  
The time is come you must address  
Yourself to Phillis, and caress  
Her with such Courtship, that she may  
Believe you meant, what I did say:  
About it then, and till that Night  
My Thoughts shall brood on your Delight.  
The Sun had scarce from Thet is Bed  
With blushing smiles lift up his head,  
But I prepared for Phillis sight,  
Her absence makes with me the Night.  
Most readily my Feet inclined  
Their steps, when unto her designed.  
Her Beauty that might Age renew,  
With a magnetic Virtue drew  
My panting heart; to every sense,  
'Tis she that gives an Influence.  
I soon arrived at the place where  
I knew if not, Phillip ' would be there.  
Chance had contrived she's come before,  
● new learned Jig to practise o'er.  
To a superlative Degree  
Beauty by her Activity  
Was raised, and she retired  
Tothth' inner Room as I desired.  
When I came in she at the Glass  
Some straggling Curls correcting was;  
Order her Fingers made: and they  
By them but touched seemed proud t' obey.  
Some Passion sparkled in her Eyes,  
So unexpected this surprise.  
I made excuse that 'twas unknown,  
She had retired there alone;  
But if so happy she'd make me,  
As to permit my Company:  
Myself so civil I'd behave,  
She'd not repent that leave she gave.  
Now Roses, Lilies, began to jar,  
At this Request with amorous War;  
Doubtful her Resolution lies,  
What grants this smile, that blush denies.  
In a confused Chaos strove  
Desire, 'twixt Modesty, and Love.  
Like that Distraction all things hurled,  
Till Order teemed an infant World.  
At last Loves conquering Charms the Field  
Had cleared, and Bashfulness did yield.  
Then Phillis spoke 'twixt blush & smile,  
I cannot think it worth your while;  
Since that th' advantage of your stay,  
Will not the loss of time repay.  
I must acknowledge whilst I live,  
I am obliged Respect to give  
To you; for your Civility:  
Though undeserved, bestowed on me.  
But your last Present I restore,  
My Thanks can never quit that score.  
I ne'er intended to receive  
Too much for me, or you to give.  
You shall not thus me undermine,  
It's Value speaks 've some Design  
Off from that Hand (she pulls he Glove)  
Whose sight would cause, but touch force Love.  
Terrestrial Galaxys its skin  
Set off by clouds of Veins within.  
So have I seen a little Fly  
Entombed in precious Amber lie;  
By the dark shadow giving grace,  
Of its own Mummy to that case.  
Now might I fear to be thus crossed,  
All my Designs ●e'n ripe were lost.  
'Twas time to take some speedy way,  
I seized her Hand, and thus did say.  
(And passionately with a Kiss  
Sometimes made a Parenthesis)  
Make it with your Acceptance blest,  
It's Price is paid with Interest.  
Why should such fancies intervene,  
To think too great, what is too mean.  
The richest Present Thought could find,  
Falls short to adequate my Mind,  
Which scorns to stoop so low to do  
That thing, might undervalue you:  
Ambitious 'tis t' adore you still,  
And wanting act aspires in will.  
Then answered Phillip ' (her looks an air  
Showed now of Hope, & then Dispair)  
Poor is the prize that I shall gain,  
Whilst Reputation fears a s●ain;  
Things Circumstances censured are  
By vulgar Tongues, not as th' appear;  
'Tis Infamy if they so call't,  
When bare Suspicion makes the fault.  
Then since such Hazards we may run,  
Scandals Occasion let us shun.  
This Answer to a timorous Fool,  
Would soon have made his Courage cool;  
But I resolved to play a Game,  
Should ne'er be spoiled through fear, or shame:  
Yet careful was what I let fall,  
Considering whom I dealt withal.  
And thus replied, Madam 'tis true  
To Reputation much is due;  
It ought to be our chiefest care,  
For to preserve that always fair:  
But when we needless scruples make,  
Of Things we lawfully may take;  
Because the Vulgar those defame,  
Ourselves for Niceness we may blame.  
Little their empty Noddles know,  
More than what they to Nature own;  
Such Fears contemns each generous Mind,  
Whose Conversations more refined.  
— Heaven knows my Heart 'tis true,  
For what I have designed on you,  
— If it may deserve that Name,  
'Twas friendship: that's my chiefest aim;  
If I should call it Love 'twill be,  
But Friendship in a high degree.  
This my Assertion would you prove,  
Stake but your Friendship to my Love;  
And when Time makes it truly known,  
Give it your favour, or your frown.  
I did my Passions Emblem choose  
In this poor Pledge, which you refuse,  
As a continued Circle this;  
So without end my Passion is:  
By this supported flaming Heart  
With these two Hands on either part,  
Is figured mine: Hope and Desire  
Supplying fuel to its fire.  
Thus he whom Bashfulness confines,  
May speak his meaning by dumb signs;  
And imitate those Times of Old,  
Whose Stories Hieroglyphics told.  
And now the last boon I shall crave,  
Is it might still your Favour have;  
But if Entreaties shan't prevail,  
Which with success might Heaven assail:  
And you're resolved it to restore,  
I beg you'd stay but one Month more.  
My Lips had scarce those Words let fly,  
And Phillis ready to reply;  
(Whilst I expect her fatal doom  
Should like a clap of Thunder come)  
In comes my old contriving Dame,  
And luckily retrieves the Game:  
Quickly her sight Phil ' s Countenance cleared,  
And then the Rainbow Mirth appeared.  
Her business was that I that Day  
Should entertain them with a Play,  
As soon as asked I granted this;  
Such Assignations who can miss.  
Thus far I had performed my Part:  
My Agent now must use her Art.  
I took my leave, and how she fared,  
At our next Meeting was declared.  
How Phillis though she seemed unkind,  
But faintly shadowed o'er her Mind.  
As by her last Discourse she guest,  
Which in this manner was expressed:  
As willingly I would not slight  
Him whose Deserts might Love invite.  
So neither would I shipwrackt be  
Upon the Rock Credulity:  
Hasty Belief but gild's the Bait,  
That trowls us on to gross Deceit.  
Whatever Man shall me persuade  
To change for Wife the Name of Maid,  
Must humbly for my Favour sue,  
And wait my Time to grant it too:  
When gained I yield he'll Master me,  
But once I will his Mistress be;  
If I but chance to tip a wink  
His Soul shall study what I think;  
His Heart by mine must motion know,  
And its true Counterpoint shall go:  
He my Commands will thus regard,  
I'll be at last his just Reward.  
That Bubble Honour's not my aim,  
To cringe to gain an empty Name.  
Nor are my Hopes so fond vain,  
To turn an old Fop young again.  
The Man that I accept shall be  
Youthful, and witty, fanc'yng me;  
If rich, I'll in his Fortune share,  
If not, that's least of all my care:  
My Heart on Wealth was never bend,  
True Love is real true Content.  
Now Wheadle had I in the way,  
That 'twas Discretion to delay;  
Most highest Estimation set  
On Things they difficultly get,  
Nothing that Value ever gained,  
Which has been easily obtained.  
What Fruit Ambition bringeth we  
May by a late Example see  
Of on●, that had as high renown,  
As could admired Beauty crown,  
And might as happy been, as fair,  
Had she for Honour took less care.  
'Mongst numerous Persons that did woe,  
Her Heart stood unresolved 'twixt two;  
●or ones Deserts, herself would grant,  
He nothing did but Honour want;  
Tother (as oft blind Chance bestows)  
Had Honour, little else God knows:  
Whilst doubtful 'twas which should prevail,  
Honour steps in and turns the Scale.  
●ut see th' Event, no sooner tied  
●y a strict League, and made a Bride,  
Fruition Fancy has controlled,  
And soon hot Love, as soon grows cold.  
His queasy Stomach loathes to take,  
For which some would a Crown forsake:  
What more on Virtue could entrench,  
Her Rival makes a dunghill Wench;  
May those like her whose aims high blood,  
On empty Honour chew the cud.  
But more prodigious seems to me  
The late much practised Foppery:  
Many Examples I could call  
To mind, but this shall serve for all.  
Of one the Picture may be called  
Of Time, I'll swear his Pates as bald  
And Brows as wrinkled; for his Eyes,  
Spectacles (thank Nose) them supplies.  
Look in his Mouth, you'll say, if e'er,  
Some Ages past Teeth did stand there;  
No mark remains: and nought appears,  
To be erected but his Ears.  
Yet will he strut, and look as big  
As possible with flaxen Wig.  
And thus accoutred, hopes to find  
Favour in his Carezzas Mind.  
Whose blooming Youth not yet Sixteen,  
The World will say was overseen,  
Its self in Wedlock to engage,  
With one that's eunucht by his Age.  
But they're mistaken 'twas her choice  
To contradict the Vulgar voice:  
Unacceptable can't appear  
He that Five-Hundred pound a Year  
Can make a Jointure of, and will  
For private Purse Desire fulfil.  
Gold Contradictions can confute,  
And Youth to Age make prostitute.  
Let her enjoy that Slavery,  
(Till I shall wish she may be free)  
Like those wh' in Limbo fear to dwell,  
By Penance make themselves a Hell;  
And find too late by this their cross,  
Uncertain gain, but certain loss.  
Forced Virtue she at last may know  
Will to itsself a burden grow.  
Hell for a Torment did devise,  
The longing Soul to Tantalise.  
Just such a case will she be in,  
Whilst Virtue checks desired Sin.  
But should she dare t' encroach upon  
That Custom hangs those Shackles on,  
And by a Chance her burden mend;  
(Such Blessing's Providence may send)  
Than Stratagems her Wit must show,  
T' impose upon Amphitryo.  
Her best Contentments are but Dreams,  
Whilst she thus suffers in Extremes.  
Virtue will make her Heartstrings crack,  
And Vice must set her Wits o'th' Wrack.  
Then happy you, (if I may guests  
By others wants your Happiness)  
Whom neither fickle Honour slights;  
Nor Dotage tempts with false Delights:  
But Fate officious in its care,  
To your own wish does Love prepare,  
In him whose worth would mollify  
Hearts flinted o'er with Cruelty,  
From whose kind Soul no Thought e'er came  
Unworthy of so great a Flame;  
Nor thinks it Slavery to do  
The meanest thing enjoined by you,  
That you're unjust the Stones would cry,  
Should such Desert regardless die.  
Now trembled Phil ' and looked about,  
As loath to let her Thoughts slip out.  
My dearest Mother whispers she,  
But that I trust your Privacy,  
(Than Protestations out I sent  
You may be sure I never meant  
To keep) you should not thus partake  
That Secret makes my Heart to ache.  
Were I but certain for to find  
His Words to correspond to's Mind,  
My jealous Thoughts should then be free;  
And cease suspecting Treachery:  
My lingering Love should mend its Pace,  
And last set out, first reach the Race.  
But since so many Fools are made  
By those that loving make their Trade,  
Who for new Faces range the Town,  
Till want makes them sit Bankrupts down:  
Blame not my still mistrusting Fears,  
'Twould melt a Niobe to Tears.  
(Now slipped the Floodgates of her Eyes,  
And Sorrow seemed to play a Prize;  
Tears made in her a comely sight,  
As if in Weeping were Delight.  
My Pity swag'd this growing pain,  
And she proceeded thus again.)  
I'd ne'er be at th' expense to weep,  
My tears should in their Cradle's sleep;  
But oh fierce Love should I deny,  
My Heart for vent would stifled die.  
Love that so oft I did Despise,  
For past faults now does tyrannize;  
And I dejected, and forlorn,  
Am made the Object of its Scorn.  
Just as some little wanton Fly,  
Securely passing Tapers Eye;  
Rejoices in that dangerous Game,  
And through Success contemns the Flame:  
But catcht at last with singed Wings,  
Buzzing for Life its own Dirge sings.  
That my Flame's true increases woe,  
For fear lest his should not be so;  
But though Distrust such thoughts can give,  
Weak Hopes by Promises may live:  
I'll not be faithless, but believe  
He will not, cannot me deceive,  
True Love unhappy is in this;  
It most suspects where least cause is.  
Yet will I still indifferent be,  
So that he shan't despair of me.  
He in whom lasting Love doth rest,  
Likes an imperious Mistress best;  
Tedious Attendance he will wait,  
Nor think repulse too rigid Fate.  
Those Troubles past our Loves will meet,  
As Spices bruised become more sweet.  
But though her Mind she thus revealed,  
Her looks wished still she had concealed.  
Endless 'twill be to tell the course  
I took, my Wheadles to enforce;  
You may believe much Art was used,  
She's not so easily abused:  
My care shall be t'unlock her Breast,  
Your Wit must make, or mar the rest.  
Words are too weak t' express my Sense  
Of Joy, at such Intelligence;  
If Traitor e'er deserved well,  
'Twas this my female Machiavelli.  
I thanked her not with empty Hand,  
Her Service might Reward command.  
And answered that she nced not fear,  
Aught should be wanting of my Care.  
Like those whose well contrived Designs,  
Their own vain boastings undermines.  
Oft by Phil's looks her Love I guest,  
But ne'er till now knew myself blest.  
If Souls (Philosophers have told)  
In Magazines were piled of old,  
And Love by Sympathy do pay  
To those at first they nearest lay:  
By this Relation, I descry  
Phil's Soul and mine lay very nigh.  
And if eternal Fates decree  
In Actions a Necessity,  
I am encouraged to proceed,  
Since Destiny designs the Deed.  
Thus did we pass the Time away,  
Till Phil ' came ready for the Play;  
Thither as overjoyed I went,  
As him that comes from Banishment.  
Sometimes of Phil ' I'd steal a look,  
And read Success in Beauty's Book;  
Then doubting she'd perceive, and frown:  
Mine Eyes through Fear themselves shut down.  
Now in a Box was Phillis set,  
Like Jewel in a Cabinet;  
And by the lustre of her Eye  
Feasted the greedy Standards by.  
At last i'th' Pit began a Chat,  
Sometimes of this, sometimes of that  
Rare Beauties which some Fops had known;  
And each Man most extolled his own:  
In such a strange confused Din,  
I thought I Babel was within.  
But more Diversion 'twas to me,  
To see the starched Formality  
Of one, that there came to be seen,  
And acted Fop 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉.  
First he with simpering does begin,  
In hopes the Ladies Smiles to win;  
And so he might, for I dare say  
'Twas more ridic'lous than the Play:  
I mean those Parts the Poet meant  
Should perfect Mimmicks represent.  
Next had his Comb with's Wigg about,  
And huffing that, sets Noddle out;  
But there till grown tothth' Bench may fit,  
If he designs to put in Wit.  
But some his Breeding will applaud,  
'Cause Travelling has been his Band;  
And lately pimped him out of France,  
Th' affected Cringe, and antic Dance:  
Thither Baboon, back Jackanapes,  
He went, and came, nothing escapes  
His search that's French: if he can get  
A new coined Word, 'tis refin'd Wit.  
But stay I almost had forgot  
To speak of Miss, that's his chief Plot:  
Strange Passion to his Countenance creeps  
When through the Curtain Pigsney peeps:  
His Eyes pursueher through that hole,  
And send a Message from his Soul;  
But well he knows Glances can't do,  
'Tis Guinys with effect must woe:  
Through their Perfwasion Love's allowed,  
Else see's as coy, as he is proud;  
Then she'll his precious parts adore,  
Though I believe what oft she's sworn,  
Some sturdy Groom has pleased her more.  
But now with Fop I must have done,  
Already is the Play begun.  
'twas the first Time that e'er was showed  
That Play called Marriage A-la-Mode;  
The Name my Fancy did incline  
To think Concernment i'th' Design.  
I knew that Marriage now was made  
But aftergame to bankrupt Trade:  
Unwillingly most pay that score,  
In Coin that Miss has used before;  
Posterity reforms their Lives,  
And Interest pin's them unto Wives.  
My Fortune may perhaps be this,  
If so; I am resolved a Miss  
T' enjoy, before that Destiny  
Condemns me to such Drudgery.  
What's my Design though I'm curs● for't,  
(How  the Poets) shan't fall short  
But whilst such fancy's tickled me,  
My Phyllis feigned simplicity;  
She seemed so innocent, so good,  
No Eye perceived she understood.  
But when appeared disguised in Dress,  
The Shepherd and his Sheapheardess,  
She looked concerned; as if't might be  
An Emblem of her Love to me.  
The Sheapheardess expressed that grace  
With modest blushes in her Face,  
That all agreed such tempting Art,  
Outdid the Poet in her Part:  
And without boasting I might say,  
She blushed, and sighed herself away.  
●ardon me Nymph if I express  
Thou shouldst be truly a Princess,  
shall not wish thy rise may be  
●rom common flesh to high degree;  
others from those low steps may rise,  
●hou dost at first deserve the Prize.  
Farewell dear Nymph, thou'rt th'only She  
Show'st Phillis in Effigy.  
But when the Play came to an end,  
In Gratitude I did commend  
The Poet for his pains that Day,  
Though myself acted was i'th' Play.  
And when this Task was undertaken,  
On him my Copy I did look.  
Who at a distance slips his Jeer,  
May venture for to be severe,  
And nothing need but naming fear,  
Which I am sure you have not here.  
Let each wh'in this the same fate find,  
From my Example prove as kind;  
And bear no malice in their Mind.  
Your Name●s I've studied to conceal,  
'Tis your own faults if you reveal.  
The Wise with secrecy yet cure,  
And by Discretion Fame secure;  
But those that proudly boast their Claps,  
May well deserve Bells in their Caps.  
Thus much for my Apology:  
Now Phillis I return to thee.  
Homewards I her conduct again,  
And what Invention could attain,  
I then did urge; did She but say  
She liked, I straight extolled the Play;  
Did She but seem to slight some part,  
My Censure was to that as tart:  
Phillis thou shalt command my breath,  
Thy smile's my life, thy frown's my death.  
Though long delayed at last she's grown  
Familiar, and my Love does own,  
But in her passion so discreet,  
Kindness and Modesty did meet;  
Her Actions Envy might survey,  
And not find out one Look astay.  
Such Entertainments I did give,  
As she might civilly receive;  
And studied not so much Expense,  
THAT express a vain Magnificense:  
But rather took a special Care  
To get those Cates were choice & rare:  
Knowing that proverb seldom fail,  
A liquorish tongue, a liqu'rish Tayl.  
Can Art, or Luxury devise  
Dishes whose tastes should Love surprise,  
I would not want those Rarities:  
Did I give Kingdoms for their price,  
Spring-Garden now I bid adieu,  
Other designs I must pursue.  
The Time was come Cornuto went,  
Lucky to me his Banishment.  
And now my Agent does entice  
Phillis (by this time not so nice)  
To Lodge with her, who little knows  
What Treason with that friendship goes.  
she's innocent and free from guile,  
And lest suspects her Mother's Wile:  
But her Experience will find out  
Those projests Women bring about.  
In vain might Sons of pleasure bend  
Their Wits, and never attain the End  
Of their Desires; but that they know  
By Female help the Nail will go.  
So the Decoy-Birds take the Wing,  
And flocks of the same Feather bring;  
Th' Invited Guests have no Distrust  
That their own Tribe should prove unjust:  
But kindly take the proffered Meat,  
And catched i'th' Net perceive the Cheat.  
Now had she Phillis in her gripe,  
And all Designs for Action ripe.  
The Night appointed was that We  
Should keep our long-wished Jubilee.  
And that I might each Sense content,  
Unto a Ball I with her went.  
So ravishing 'twas to my sight,  
Of her brisk motion the Delight,  
Can I have still that Object by,  
I'd wish myself turned all to Eye.  
Who'd seen her at the Music's sound,  
With ordered steps to skin the Ground,  
Would think she had not stepped, but flew:  
So light she passed, with Time so true.  
By this Time was our Dancing done,  
And to the Treat we now are gone.  
Where neither cost, nor care was spared,  
To get those Dainties there prepared.  
Frontiniack, and rich Florence Wine,  
Did with their Flavours so combine,  
Had envious Cynnick sipped, he must  
Have Ecstasies at every Gust.  
Jellies and Creams did next appear,  
Trembling like bashful Lovers fear,  
But 'tis their Tastes th' Effects can do,  
In them lies strength, and courage too.  
By this time Phillis pleasant was,  
So oft my Mother filled her Glass.  
I took th' advantage of that Vein,  
And boldly did request a strain.  
Phillis (that often had been )  
Thought now 'twas Rudeness to deny.  
Freely gins her rhapsody,  
With such delicious Melody;  
That charmed by her harmonious Throat,  
I took new Life from every Note.  
Say not theirs Music in the Spheres,  
None will believe't that hers once hairs.  
Let Phillis feed me with such Breath,  
I'll live beyond the power of Death;  
Tedious can never be her Song,  
Were it Eternal: 'twere not long:  
But lasting is no mortal Bliss,  
The Time to take the parting Kiss  
Approaches now; & when that comes  
Arabia with all her Gums  
Such charming sweets could never produce,  
Or Fruits  with noblest Juice,  
To craving Appetite can be  
Such full content; as that to me.  
Delight it was so great that I  
Received not without Ecstasy.  
At last revived, with a sad Scene  
I let her know what Love doth mean.  
Numberless sighs express my Moon,  
And blame swift Time I must be gone.  
But Phillis innocently free,  
Relenting with a sympathy;  
pity's me for my feigned Grief,  
And by her sighs gives some Relief.  
Ask why I vex myself in vain,  
As if we ne'er should meet again.  
Modestly thanks me for the Treat,  
But never dreams herself's my meat.  
I thanked her too, and softly swore  
I hoped ere long to please her more,  
Then Creams or Jellies did before.  
Departed now I make no stay,  
But soon slip in the t'other way.  
No Difficulties need I fear,  
Wel-known's the Path I traverse there;  
But had it Labyrinths about,  
My Love would find its passage out.  
Now entered in th' appointed place,  
With Expedition I uncase  
Myself, and into Bed I go,  
And hearken what is done below.  
My Mother that was never slack  
When her own profit lay at stake,  
With double Diligence makes haste;  
And sees her doors securely fast.  
Then speaks to Phil. My dearest Heart  
How loath thy Servant was to part;  
How did his sighs entreat his stay:  
And every Look beg some Delay:  
When Time to Lover's so severe  
Was passed, I'm sure his heart stayed here:  
His restless Soul can ne'er be free,  
But busied still with thoughts of thee.  
In Charity be then so kind  
And let him this poor Favour find:  
That you his Passion bear in mind.  
Injustice 'twere if you this Night  
Don't sympathize with his Delight.  
Come let us haste to our Repose,  
Where in mine arms I'll thee enclose,  
And with more freedom there relate,  
What Joys attend a married state.  
Phillis that Wine had pliant made,  
By silence her Consent betrayed:  
Follows her up unto that Bed,  
So fatal to her Maidenhead:  
And there her Garments does divest,  
And softly lays herself to rest.  
(Our Rooms with Wainscot parted were,  
So that I might distinctly hear,  
And want of sight supply with Ear.)  
My Mother was no sooner in  
The Bed, but thus she does begin.  
Dear Phil. believe me, (by this Kiss!)  
I speak what my Experience is.  
If Youth or Beauty could create  
A Happiness, 'twas once my Fate  
To be so Happy: but alas  
Beauty a poor Contentment was,  
And Youth you see away must pass:  
Something my Fancy did admire,  
That Admiration brought Desire;  
Which satisfaction ne'er could know,  
Till to Enjoyment it did go;  
My joys then to perfection came,  
When Wedlock had allayed my flame.  
'Tis that Love's harmony imparts,  
And Cements fast the noblest Hearts.  
Tell me Dear Phil. ('twixt you and I  
Needless is Fear, no Ears are nigh.)  
Have you not been with Love oppressed,  
And felt its symptoms in your Breast.  
A shivering Qualm does first surprise,  
With Visage pale, and ghastly Eyes;  
The Heart then struggling stops the Breath,  
And makes a doubt 'twixt life and death.  
Many endure this Agony,  
But few can tell the Reason why.  
We Matrons it Green-sickness call,  
Or Fits of th' Mother, that befall  
Young Virgins, 'cause they Charcoal eat,  
Or Chalk, and nauceate wholesome meat:  
And thus we many times disguise  
The truth, with such officious Lies.  
When we burned feathers for the Cure  
Prescribe; & make them stinks endure.  
But oh!— (and then she made a pause)  
We well can tell the certain cause  
Of this prevailing Malady,  
And what's the surest Remedy.  
That dismal paleness is a Type,  
That Nature's fruit was grown full ripe,  
Which lingering did for Harvest call;  
And pined it should ungathered fall.  
So tender Bud of fragrant Rose,  
Does by degrees itself disclose;  
As fearing lest it should expire,  
And want Spectators to admire:  
But when the time approaches nigh,  
Of its desired maturity;  
Displays its leaves, and calleth forth  
Whatever may increase its Worth:  
Puts on its smiles, & breaths perfumes,  
Then blushing modesty presumes,  
It may deserve some courteous hand  
To kiss: and not still useless stand;  
But when it once perceives neglect,  
And Beauty can't engage Respect,  
Impatient with such long delay,  
It faints and withers quite away.  
But this misfortunes not your fear,  
Nature has not been so severe;  
But first an Object for Delight,  
Provided,  an Appetite.  
In him that well deserves my Place,  
With whom you'll Happiness embrace  
Whose Heart I'm sure is firmly bend  
For to consummate your content.  
Dost thou not wish this were the Night,  
That Hymen should his Tapers light:  
When each enclosed in others arms,  
Might give and take Love's pleasing Charms.  
● know thou dost— and that expressed,  
Her amorous actions spoke the rest.  
But long that fondness did not hold,  
●ill Phillis thus her Story told.  
My own Experience is but small  
Of those misfortunes Maids befall,  
● bless my Stars for good success,  
●ut pity those in such Distress;  
Where fond Desire has ruled the Roast,  
●nd modesty its Empire lost.  
Love's raging passion I'll deny,  
Till Marriage may it justify;  
Should I before indulge that flame,  
The World it Lust, not Love would name.  
But here my Mother was afraid.  
Phillip ' would proceed, and thus she said.  
My dearest Child 'twixt thee and me,  
What need these Resolutions be,  
In public it were well designed  
If you had thus expressed your mind.  
I have resolved as well as you,  
And have performed as Women do.  
Though I in Marriage put some stress,  
I can't esteem of Love the less;  
Which in its freedom may be blest,  
As well as with that clog oppressed.  
The Ceremoni's but the Shell,  
The Kernel is in loving well.  
Why should we then be forced to make  
A feast for Ostentation's sake,  
Since 'tis not of Necessity;  
But may be left at liberty.  
Marriage did once fall to my share;  
And 'twill to thine Phil ' never fear;  
And yet my Conscience could dispense  
With Love before without Offence.  
Which now to tell I can't refrain,  
Those Thoughts e'en make me Young again.  
When first my Deer declared his mind,  
I could not be to Love inclined:  
Till mutual Vows our Hearts had joined.  
But than it chanced one Night that we  
Were blest with Opportunity,  
When he his utmost Courtship tried,  
And I as much in me denied:  
At last (Dear Phil, I must it speak,)  
He grew too strong, and I too weak.  
But what Delight that Conquest brought,  
My Tongue can ne'er express my thought,  
At every sigh, and every Kiss,  
How we transported were with bliss?  
How whilst intranc'd in Love we lay?  
Our wandering Souls were fled away.  
And if We erred at that blessed time,  
Our passion might excuse our Crime.  
The most that could our Spirits awe,  
Was but a breach of humane Law:  
And shall such Edicts that withstand,  
Which boundless Nature does command,  
Their Justice to Oppression's grown,  
If Lovers may not use their Own.  
But fear not Phil ' that I design,  
That my Example should be thine;  
I think thy Virtue will refuse;  
And beg my Weakness thou'lt excuse.  
But if it happen so to be  
That thou like Opportunity,  
Shouldst have, (for certainly none knows  
How Fate their Actions may dispose)  
And shouldst consent; (I put this case)  
The matter's not such great disgrace.  
What resolution can avail,  
When powerful Love does once assail;,  
And pleads for that (which is no more  
Than what thy Mother did before)  
Virtue itself must be betrayed,  
For Morals then aside are laid.  
Now all was hushed, and after this  
Scarce the faint Echo of a Kiss  
Can well be heard; for Phil ' complied  
In Heart, though Fear her Tongue still tied.  
Virtue that rare but comely Grace,  
Which in frail flesh has seldom place;  
Had almost gained her tender heart,  
No wonder than 'twas loath to part.  
When banished Virtue once withdrew  
My Mother soon her own strength knew;  
And silent Courtship does pursue,  
Till sleep my Phillis did surprise,  
And drew the Curtains of her Eyes.  
No Usurer that long has lent  
And rooked an Heir at Ten per Cent.  
So nimbly does the forfeit take,  
When his last Lordship lies at stake,  
As did my Circe post away,  
When her Charms had secured the prey.  
Nor Aeson when with powerful Art,  
Medea did new Life impart,  
So actively his Limbs did use;  
As I revived with this glad News.  
Not a less noise the Air receives,  
When morning-dew salutes the leaves,  
Then made my steps: so light I went,  
As if Loves God his Wings had lent.  
Assoon as I the Bed came near,  
To Venus thus I made my Prayer.  
Great Goddess now to make me blest,  
Vouchsafe me thine own amorous cest,  
The same I mean on flowery Ide,  
Which lucky was to th' thunderers Bride;  
When Masquerading for a Bout,  
At her last shift it helped her out;  
And in Jove's senses caused such strife,  
That he for Miss mistook his Wife:  
And briskly struggling in the dark,  
The Mountain made St. Jame's Park.  
No sooner this Devotion paid,  
But in the Bed myself I laid.  
Some Hotspur now would make no stay,  
But in his Talons seize the Proy,  
But that I thought would rather be  
Gross folly, then good Policy;  
Needless for that 'tis to use force,  
Which if well managed comes of course.  
This made me then resolve to grudge  
Myself th' Indulgence of a Touch,  
But wait the time till she should wake;  
And first perceive her own mistake.  
No whining Brother such a trial,  
Ere had of so much self-denial,  
As I: before me having meat,  
But awed by prudence durst not eat.  
Yet some advantage was that night  
Th' assistance of pale Phebe's Light,  
Though feeling's bard; I used my sight.  
Sol I disclaim thee, thou a Lover  
To Cuckold Vulcan didst discover;  
Who in the manner (by his Art)  
Surprised him, that he could not part:  
Then like a limping Villain plods,  
And calls to's shame the smiling Gods.  
So Citizen that ne'er did hear  
The frequent failings of his Dear,  
Informed by an officious Friend,  
His cheating business cannot tend:  
Till he to Guild-Hall brings the Jest,  
And proves himself a well-horned Beast.  
But to my Story, I surveyed  
(whilst in sweet slumbers drowned she laid.)  
The naked Beauties of her Breasts,  
Where thousand Cupids make their Nests.  
Comparisons I here forgo  
Of Alabaster, driven Snow,  
Worn out by Poets long ago.  
They need no more Hyperholies,  
Then their own Native purities.  
But whilst I from these Objects pass,  
To View what else uncovered was:  
A sudden Trembling seized her Heart,  
And in her sleep she seemed to start;  
Her breath that silently had passed,  
With sighing murmurs blamed its haste.  
As if the Air that she drew in,  
Unwilling was to go'ut again.  
So have I seen a stream that's deep,  
With its slow motion lulled asleep;  
But when by shallow Rocks denied,  
It wakes: & does their Rudeness chide:  
Up sprung Her arms, and catched at Air,  
Then closed; as if s'had something there:  
So strong they clasped, the Bed they shaked,  
And then with want of breath she waked.  
Her hands could scarce their Office do  
To rub her Eyes, mine did so too.  
And with her Actions, time did keep,  
As if I just had vvaked from sleep.  
No Fowler ere so close did watch,  
When that he would a Dot'rel catch.  
When Phillis found I was awake,  
Mistaking me, she thus did speak.  
Dear Mother I no sooner closed  
Mine eyes, but in a Dream supposed  
Myself into a Chamber brought,  
Which with rich Furniture was fraught.  
Side-boards it had with China pressed,  
Those brittle Glories of the East.  
Glasses there stood reflecting Light,  
And dazzled the Spectator's sight.  
To Hang next which Persian loom  
Had Wove, my wand'ring eyes did come;  
Where a rare Hand had done its part,  
That Nature seemed outstripped by Art.  
I wrong that work should I forget  
Those fruits and flowrs i'th' Border set.  
Such multitudes were there expressed,  
And those of sight and shape the best:  
Had Paradise itself been by,  
'twould blush at their Variety.  
Here whilst a Bird with greedy beak  
A ripened Cherry seems to break,  
One might perceive the juice to fill  
His Throat so full, he seemed to spill  
Pure crystal drops: which at first view;  
Descending seemed like pearls of dew.  
There whilst I view a full blown Rose,  
Its leaves just shatt'ring I suppose;  
At least so ticklish seemed their stay,  
The smallest breath might blowed away.  
But though this Borders work was rare,  
With that within it can't compare;  
Ages to come may fetch from thence  
A Model for lost Excellence.  
The Story was Hypom'nes strife  
To win his Love; or lose his life;  
Oh! how it did rejoice my heart,  
To see the Youth t' have got the start,  
My pity boiled up to the brim,  
And wishes ran along with him:  
Viewing At'lanta at his heels,  
My heart as much of anguish feels.  
Oh Savage Maid! see I a truth?  
And canst thou hurt that lovely Youth?  
Cursed be thy Vow which fierceness took  
Beyond the Charms of his sweet look,  
Beauties excelling thine would bless  
Themselves at thy scorned happiness:  
Soon should decided be that Race,  
Were I, were I but in thy Place.  
Here scarce for weeping could refrain  
Mine Eyes till I had viewed again;  
Her Visage then seemed to look down,  
Half had a smile, and half a frown:  
Wondering what power that smile could draw,  
A golden Apple than I saw;  
Its Beauty seemed t' affect her soul,  
And as she stooped, that seemed to roll;  
And strivo as much as well it may  
T' advantage him, and her delay.  
Thus did I think, and more had said  
To praise the Youth, and blame the Maid.  
But then considered it might be  
That I deferved much worse than she,  
Who pity did to shadow show,  
And a substantial Love forgo.  
How oft have I left him forlorn?  
And all his kindness paid with scorn.  
If I a Visit did permit,  
IT was with intent to scoff at it.  
How was I pleased when he was gone  
With but a Recollection.  
How oft he did Addresses make?  
How patiently abuses take?  
None but a Fool could Rage abridge,  
Were not this Female privilege?  
When I more freedom did him give,  
And would sometimes a Treat receive,  
Lord how precise I was and nice,  
Entreaties scarce could me entice  
●o eat, as if ’t’adad been his right  
●o find me meat, and appetite.  
●● he a Present did bestow,  
●● in acceptance was so slow;  
The time and labour that he lost,  
Might almost, countervail its cost.  
But now blessed shadow warned by thee,  
I am resolved to be more free;  
Thy sight has since convinced me more  
Than all his Courtship did before:  
Let Opportunity be kind,  
I'll satisfy his longing mind.  
Thus whilst I said (and turned my head  
To view a stately Damask Bed,  
Whose Golden fringe did seem to be  
The Indies in Epitome;  
I thought at first seeing so much,  
Some Midas turned it with a Touch.)  
Entered my Love, and as I feared,  
All my discourse had overheard.  
Scarce had Di●na when●she spied  
Actaeon by the Fountain's side,  
A deeper blush; then my cheeks died:  
Only I had the happier fate  
To bush for Love, but she for hate.  
Love seemed with him to crown the place,  
From every motion came a Grace.  
Smiling he says, (and takes my hand  
Whilst I like Statue ravished stand)  
Phillis how long wile thou refuse?  
And let thy Conscience still accuse  
Thee for Injustice: to hold out  
Is against Love; which cannot doubt.  
How canst thou entertain a Flame?  
And not believe I have the same.  
The Love that Jealousy can cross,  
●s not as yet refined from dross.  
Why should me now thus stand in awe?  
Since Love is to itself a ●aw;  
Both Love and Opportunity,  
Design this how'r for thee and me.  
Not the bold Falcon takes her flight,  
When she the Quarry has in sight,  
With Expedition more than he  
Seemed in my Dream to seize on me;  
Striving to call my Voice I missed,  
Beyond my power 'twas to resist:  
With the fame force he me beguiled,  
With the same force me reconciled;  
Never till then me thoughts I found  
That Love had Balm to heal its wound,  
And was as willing for to be  
Pomona, as Vertumnus he.  
But thus whilst I repeat Love's charms,  
And think him sure within mine arms.  
Wishing he might continue there,  
I waked, and found nought else but air.  
(Here did she turn, and clipping me)  
Dear Mother what should these things be?  
Goodness! in what a strange Extreme  
I am, sure this was more than Dream.  
I find my Resolution halt,  
And almost could permit a Fault.  
Had I been impotent, or old,  
This would have made me young, and bold,  
If Ixion's blood grew raging mad,  
When for a Miss a Cloud he had,  
Much more might mine; having a● good  
As Juno, real Flesh and Blood.  
No more was said, but Phil ' if you  
False joys thus please; what then will true?  
I sighed, she strove, and in her pain,  
By striving echoed sighs again;  
But when strength failed she fell away,  
And like a stone as Senseless lay,  
But than continued was my strife,  
Till by that skirmish she took Life,  
And by degrees prevailing Charms,  
To clasp the Foe compelled her arms:  
Then came new Sense to ev●ry part,  
And with quick motion springed her Heart;  
Joy then succeeds i'th' place of Moon,  
Love can dissolve a heart of Stone;  
And with its pure Aetherial fire,  
Thaw the benumbed and froze Desire.  
So was at first Pygmalion's Miss,  
unactive to her proffered Bliss;  
But when inspired from above,  
Grew warm with simpathetick love;  
She blushed, and knew not what it meant,  
Till th' amorous God surprised consent.   

Conclusion.  
So Caesar when his Wars were done,  
His Pen ran o'er what's Sword had Won,  
And in that Conquest triumphed more,  
Then in his World Subdued before.    

GALLANTRY A-la-mode  
PART III.  

OH Indignation! how I swell,  
When but my Thoughts revive that Hell.  
Drinking the Vice of this damned Age,  
Madness and Fury does engage,  
To cause such baseness to be shown,  
Which till that time was never known.  
A long intended Treachery,  
(Mixed with the dregs of Lechery)  
To act some unsuspected choose  
A Time might fit me for Abuse.  
A Tavern they design the Stage,  
To show this Trajedy of Rage;  
Mine the chief Part O misery!  
Miss and two more the Actors be.  
She with her Mate the first meet there,  
Hugging themselves in jumbling chair;  
Not long before the Play was out,  
And then comes old Companion Pout.  
So Dog and Bitch we do deride,  
When they their True-love's Knot have tied.  
When Mirth was vanished from his eye,  
Miss and himself no Company;  
He sends for one his heart to cheer,  
That might outvie a dancing Bear:  
Of Whimsey's, Freaks, a Medrigall,  
In all his Actions Comical.  
With his addition they made three,  
Yet one more want, and that is me;  
When Messenger the News did bring,  
My Love straight puts me on the Wing:  
But dear Experience proved at last,  
I did but then make too much haste.  
When come, I saw the Nymph arise  
Like Morning from the Eastern skies;  
In parallel my heart did run,  
And Persian like adored that Sun.  
Her Humour was an Harmony  
Of brisk Discourse, and Repartee;  
But O misfortune! in a trice,  
We must forsake that Paradise.  
One of cross Humour I might well  
Ill Omens by his Looks foretell,  
Yet unregarded let him go,  
Because I oft had known him so.  
One that to curse an Age I'd spend.  
I lie if I should him name friend.  
For drinking Brimmers was inclined,  
Nor better pleasures there could find;  
To Misses mirth does disagree:  
That Surfeits him, that pleases me.  
The Wine poured out sent back no Smile.  
As conscious of ensuing Guile;  
But by its blushing did presage,  
Dismal Effects of its own Rage.  
When subtle Fumes began to rise,  
And I in danger of Surprise;  
When Reason came to its last stake,  
My Seeming Friends I thus bespoke.  
If for my own it may not be,  
Yet for the Nymphs sake pity me;  
Now whilst 'tis time let us prevent,  
That which too late we may repent●  
Think but how vain Excuses show,  
That say I thought it would not be so:  
Which of you now can ignorant be,  
Of mine (I blush)— Infirmity:  
Since thus my humour you have known,  
What prove my Faults, you make your own.  
Yet still they pressed, but like a Rock  
A did resolve to stand their Shock;  
As one Plot failed, they new Create,  
And Miss at last make Advocate.  
Then did the Nymph begin to try.  
Charms Resolution can't deny.  
Her Wit and Beauty must prevail;  
For those are Weapons never fail;  
Now though I had resolved t' obey,  
Yet by Remonstrance thus did say.  
Fair Nymph you might have bid me do  
Something would better please us two.  
Then had I no Excuse at hand,  
For to delay your just Command:  
By this I fear what may ensue,  
Will neither please myself, nor you.  
So Jove at Semele's Desire,  
Came down with his Celestial fire;  
And Phaenix-like does Nymph expire.  
My Lips that now their Duty pay,  
May be Seduced and disobey;  
And what's adored as soon may be  
Contemned by an Apostasy.  
What baseness cannot Wine infuse,  
And could you pardon such Abuse▪  
My Reason by your Will is crossed,  
And in that labrinth almost lost:  
What's your Request: no force can want,  
Nor can you ask what I can't grant.  
Now does appear in Misses Eye,  
The Triumph of a Victory;  
That her Desires should be obeyed,  
To Sooth my Humour thus she said.  
Yourself with Scruples don't deceive,  
What you can Say; I can forgive:  
Words can't offend in Wine expressed,  
For then Abuse is but a Jest.  
Then when the Nymph her Work had done,  
To see th' Event, sits looking on.  
Whilst to each Health I brimmer pay,  
Unknown my Reason steals away.  
My stam'ring Tongue something lets slip,  
Displeases Nymp 'twixt Cup and Lip.  
She might have pardoned me, when that  
I spoke scarce she or I knew what;  
I did endeavour what I could,  
But none but she me understood:  
First Syllables were placed last,  
I in that Gibberish made such haste,  
IT would puzzle Linguist to detect  
The Riddle of my Dialect.  
Fair Nymph what meanest, be not amazed  
At Devil thou thyself has raised;  
My mumbling cannot do thee harm,  
Believe me cunning of a Charm  
To stir up Love: that word Amor,  
Which thou mistak'st, and turn'st to Whore.  
Now female Fury's past recall,  
Nymph is grown the Devil and all;  
And gives me then a small disgrace,  
By throwing Wine upon my face.  
Can I have spoke, I'd said dear Miss  
Rain without thunder wholesome is;  
And may be thanked her too for this.  
But now t' appease her I despair,  
Her nimble fingers seize my Hair;  
And both fast in that Conflict bound,  
Do tumble grovelling on the Ground.  
Who'd seen that skirmish would have said,  
Herodia's had her St. John's head;  
Were we hung out no better sign,  
Then us could recommend the Wine.  
Whilst that she says my Death she sought,  
Each Twitch her Bodkins stab I thought.  
Long was it e'er that hold she'd part,  
But longer did endure the smart;  
Though scarce I knew when she let lose,  
My Pate like Anvil had such blows  
From one that then might well me spare;  
And take Revenge upon the square;  
When I might do, what he could dare.  
Nymph disengaged, a while I stood,  
And blushing drops did think my blood  
No Welshman at the sight of's Gore,  
Enraged with Fury ever swore,  
As I for this to swinge that Whore.  
As Taper drawing near its End,  
In the last flash most light does spend.  
So I believing Death drew nigh,  
Not unrevenged fain would die.  
What Wine can prompt I now begin,  
Manhood is out, and Devil in.  
That Nymph a Fury seems to me,  
Which I adored as Deity.  
On drinking tends this cursed Fate,  
Each in excess to Love, or Hate;  
Like Lightning at the Nymph I flew,  
And with my fall down her I drew.  
When she of Safety did despair,  
Her hideous shrink rend the air.  
Then 'twas too late to act that part,  
When most obdurate was my heart.  
That hand that had been welcome bold,  
And from that Sex found loving hold;  
(To think of't does my Grief renew)  
Should such a mean Revenge pursue:  
Palsy benumed, all can be said;  
'Tis not the first that Wine betrayed,  
But though I do my Self accuse,  
Yet will not that the Nymph excuse;  
When what ensued I did foretell,  
Had she believed all had been well.  
So had Cassandra Troy repreiv'd,  
But like true Prophet not believed.  
Of wretched mortals 'tis the fate,  
To find too soon; they're wise too late.  
Can I but half so well have guest,  
At what lay smothered in thy breast,  
I poison would have quaffed, and burst;  
Rather then thus have quenched my thirst.  
I'm not the first, nor last shall be,  
That will be once deceived by thee.  
In this thou such a Course didst take,  
Prudence could scarce prevent mistake.  
'Tis not impossible to find,  
With peerless aspect, peerless mind.  
Thy outward shape belief might win,  
As mirror of thy heart within.  
Which had it been my luck to meet,  
Feature and disposition sweet:  
That would have pardoned my Mischance,  
Considering the circumstance,  
When Time had brought me to a Sense  
Of my Deserts, for this Offence  
Mine Eyes that I can safely swear  
For Seven years past han't shed a tear.  
Their floodgates then should opened be,  
And deluge for that injury.  
No tongue could then enough confess  
Such favour with its thank fullness.  
When thou to this Revenge giv'st place,  
Thy Glory's clouded by Disgrace;  
Thou dost participate my Gild,  
And provest thyself at best a Jilt.  
Thy pardon never beg will I,  
Unless it be by irony.  
Pardon me dear and pretty Punk,  
'tad ne'er been said but I was drunk;  
I will begin to practise force  
Upon myself in all Discourse;  
Lest that my tongues unbridled youth  
Should touch the confines of a Truth:  
And when invention wants a Lie,  
Thenceforth I'll quit thy Company.  
But now thou'lt say ' 'ttwas interest made  
Thee to this action me persuade,  
And for that amorous Sirs sweat sake,  
Thou didst this frolic undertake.  
If so, than what fell out may be,  
A warning both to thee and me:  
When we to great attempts consent,  
We think of what may prove th' event.  
So some of thy Profession chance,  
Whilst they their profit would advance;  
Full oft to have the hard mishap,  
Of being sped with swinging Clap:  
When shower of Guiney's does suspend,  
The Trial of a twist, and bent;  
And they or●eswai'd by weighty fee,  
Against their wills must modest be:  
Whilst others less Returns have made,  
Wanting convenience of close Trade;  
Yet cautious are, and will not do,  
Without a sight, and trial too:  
(Though small's their Gain, great's their Content,  
Whose boldness can such harms prevent.)  
Are certain of (ere they lie down)  
Security, with half a Crown.  
But though 'tis time to take my leave,  
This fault shall not my Love bereave;  
What once I purposed must not be,  
Thy Sex commands my Charity:  
And spite of all I wavering find,  
My Resolutions as thy mind;  
Therefore dear Nymph before I go,  
Some Wispes on thee I'll bestow.  
May'st thou enjoy Prosperity,  
In practising thy Mystery;  
And never come to know the want  
Of treating Cully, kind Gallant:  
That will detest base Avarice,  
And value pleasure by its price.  
Nor Gallant absence may'st thou rue,  
But Ariadne like find new.  
And since this fate thou needest not dread,  
Because so luckily th' art sped;  
With one propitious Chance has sent,  
Whose dotage makes him permanent:  
May that old satire in desire,  
Through his glass Eyes thee still admire;  
When thou liest down in wanton play,  
To feast his sight seem'st Milky-way;  
When wrapped in Smock without a Gore,  
With Network Point placed just before.  
He skips, and friskt, and's strangely proud,  
To see the Moon peep through a Cloud.  
May'st thou his reverend Age accost,  
Like a May morn the rimy Frost;  
In a selected happy hour,  
To melt him to a golden shower:  
The best Content he can bestow,  
Or thou from him desir'st to know.  
May he so fond and blockish be,  
Near to suspect thy Constancy.  
Let Wit thy Jilting so refrain,  
That Reputation thou may'st gain;  
Then let Discretion still maintained,  
That thou through Punk may'st seem a Saint.   
FINIS.