MISS CN; The worthy Scorner

I Come not here Apollo to display Charms and allurements; that's the wanton's way. I simply come, and hope I am not rude, To tell how oft' I fruitless have been woo'd; Each fair may learn a lesson from the same, 'T will raise her private if not public fame. Some sighing puppies wept to kiss my hand, Their hearts and fortunes were at my command; Their pray'rs were earnest, but their sense was shallow, For each turn'd out a self-conceited fellow: I often wonder how some girls can bear The powder'd fop with saucy vacant air— I scorn a man that's not a man of parts, Well red in men as well as mystic arts, That could betray an evening with his talk, Or cheer the serious sweet domestic walk, Or smooth the rugged tempest of this life, To prove him worthy of a worthy wife, To be a friend when friends are needed most, Without the empty vanity to boast; Such are the men your suppliant still admir'd, To win but such she only charms desir'd. A little pelf-puffed merchant there came, And wanted me the wedding day to name— His passion kindled quite too quick and strong To be or candid or sincerely long; Him I despis'd—His clerk submissive bow'd, And all his soul in willing transports vow'd; Each day he begs me to be call'd his wife, To taste the pleasure of domestic life— Now, great Apollo, if in these a grace You find to mend the features of my face— Say that my merits far surpasses charms, And is with lovers more resistless arms.

Apollo brightning smil'd upon the maid, And with a look encouraging he said, Virtue is lovely—let not wealth allure, Without content ev'n riches is but poor— 'T was brave, by heav'n, the master to despise, And on! is clerk to look with winning eyes. The herald drew the brazen trump of fame, Expecting still this was the fav'rite dame, Till in her ear the judge he something said, And mild and modest then withdrew the maid.