Strephon when you see me fly

Strephon when you see me fly Let not this your fear create, Maids may be as often shy Out of love as out of hate; When from you I fly away, It is because I dare not stay.

Did I out of hatred run Less you'd be my pain and care; But the youth I love, to shun, Who can such a trial bear? Who that such a swain did see Who could love and fly like me?

Cruel duty bid me go, Gentle love commands me stay; Duty's still to love a foe, Shail I this or that obey? Daty frowns, and Cupid smiles, That defends and this beguiles.

Ever by those crystal streams I could sit and hear thee sigh, Ravish'd with these pleasing dreams, O 'tis worse than death to fly: But the danger is so great Fear gives wings, instead of hate.

STREPHON, if you love me, leave me, If you stay, I am undone; Oh! with ease you may deceive me, Pri'thee charming swain be gone. Heav'n decrees that we should part, That has my vows, but you my heart.