BALLAD. (Come, courage lads, and drink away)

Come, courage lads, and drink away, A man upon his wedding day, Ought rarely well his part to play At Stingo or October:

For, who would be that stupid elf, For whim, caprice, or love, or pelf, To poison, hang, or drown himself, Or marry when he's sober.

For Madam's will at nothing stops, She must have balls, and routs, and sops, And often ransacks all the shops, In gay attire to robe her:

Then drink the day you take a wife, As the last comfort of your life; For, ever after, noise and strife, Are sure to keep you sober.