Merry and Wise

To be merry, and wise, is a maxim of old, But a maxim so good can't too often be told, Then attend to my song, nor my counsel despise, For I mean to be merry—but merry and wise.

Ye Bucks, who when toping, such rapture express, Yet give the next day dismal proofs of excess, Avoid all extremes, and mark what I advise, 'Tis to drink, and be merry—but merry and wise.

In women, all lovely, is centr'd each Bliss, But let Prudence direct you, 'twill sweeten each kiss; Let not beauty, or folly, your senses disguise, You may kiss and be merry—but merry and wise.

Then ye topers, and rakes, who would lead honest lives, Avoid all excesses, and choose modest wives, While Prudence presides, it is thus I advise Love, drink, and be merry—but merry and wise.