Since life's but a span, as philosophers…

Since life's but a span, as philosophers say, I'm determin'd through life to be happy and gay; In winter, or summer, in country or town, Mirth, women, and wine shall the moments all crown.

Let the grave and morose, with fantastical pride, Like cynics still rail, and my manner deride; The enjoyments of life, if they're put to the test, Will be found still alike, is the wish of each breast.

Yet prudence with pleasure, is surely the test, That distinguishes man from inordinate beast; The spirits to raise, and to banish dull care, And the blessings, not follies of life for to share.

Not to give up reflexion for nonsense and strife, Or embitter with drink all the moments of life; The glass with good humour must ever engage, But drunkenness is the forerunner of rage.

The passions enflam'd with the juice of the vine, Abuses the gift of that nectar divine; Which us'd with discretion, a cordial would prove, To the true joys of friendship, good humour and love:

Then while that kind nature runs brisk in my veins, And quite unimpair'd my remembrance remains; In winter or summer, in country or town, Mirth, women and wine shall my moments all crown.