SONG. (Should you ask me, what female desert…)

Should you ask me, what female desert I require To relish the conjugal life; Nor beauty, nor titles, nor wealth I desire, To bias my choice in a wife: The charms of a face may occasion a sigh; The costly allurements of Art May yield a short moment of joy to the eye, But give no delight to the heart.

Would equipage, splendor, or noble descent Bring comfort wherever they fall, Could these add a drop to the cup of Content, I'd gladly partake of them all; But vain the assistance proud riches bestow, The raptures that beauty impart, To soften the painful reflections of woe, Or banish distress from the heart.

Then give me the temper unclouded and gay, The countenance ever serene, To cheer with sweet converse as youth wears away, And dissipate anger and spleen; Whose smiles may endear and enliven the hours Retirement shall oft set apart; Whose virtues may sooth when disquietude sours, And tenderness cherish the heart.

For Fortune, be Honour her portion assign'd, For Beauty, bright Health's rosy bloom, Let Justice and Candor ennoble her mind, And Cheerfulness Sorrow consume: Thus form'd would she share with me life's little store, It's mixture of pleasure and smart. She'd ever continue, 'till both were no more, The constant delight of my heart.