An Old Friend with a New Face

Of friendship men often will boast to each other, For we all are consider'd as sister or brother; Life's a meer masquerade, and 'tis often the case, That you'll meet an old friend, that shall wear a new face.

You shall sit at the board where the toasts freely pass, And good sentiments given on filling each glass, But meet the next morning, and often you'll trace, That your over-night friend has put on a new face.

If you've e'er been connected with placemen or trade, When your word or your vote would have yielded them aid, Though your hand might be squeez'd by old Grub or his Grace, When their ends are once serv'd they will shew a new face.

Should Fortune by chance throw a purse in your way, What a many fine things will each flatterer say, Should she once turn her back, you shall sink in disgrace, And the devil a friend but will wear a new face.

Then let each worthy fellow take care of himself, And keep a few comforts in store on his shelf; Yet be not a niggard, with prudence keep pace, And despise that old friend that shall wear a new face.