The Neglected Fair

Of Columbia's boast the praise be mine; What's that but American beauty? With rapture I'd invoke the nine, Ye men, learn hence your duty: The sex were blessings all design'd, With rapture then enjoy them; Nor so debase a female mind, To conquer, then destroy them: Then, O protect Columbia's fair, Be mindful of your duty; May vengeance ne'er the villain spare, A foe to love and beauty.

That tender form you first seduc'd, Why is it now neglected? Behold her sad, by grief reduc'd, Pale, meagre, and dejected! Behold her begging with a sigh, Behold her disregarded! Then view the anguish in her eye! And say, is love rewarded? Then, O protect, &c.

Each female heart is free from guile, 'Till crafty men infect it; With artful tale, or magic wile, He wins, and then neglects it: Her pining soul finds no relief, Sad tears flow fast and melt her; Her o'er fraught bosom bursts with grief, And in the grave finds shelter! Then, O protect, &c.

When fortune frowns and friends forsake, Still lovely woman cheers us; Our grief or raptures they partake, Distresses but endear us: While man's professions all will fly,

Nor dying will abet you, But meet your corpse as passing by, And with a sigh forget you. Then O protect, &c.

While round your bed the mourning fair Hangs like a drooping willow, Each pang or sigh still anxious share, Nor leave your woe-worn pillow!— Then charge your glasses to the fair, May beauty ne'er be slighted— That source of bliss, by whom we are Conceiv'd brought forth, delighted. Then, O protect, &c.