Verses

Give me but WALLER'S pen, his ease of rhyme, Or else assist me all ye beauteous nine; For much I wish, however plain 'tis drest, My thoughts in simple elegance exprest; Truth needs no disguise—no outward shew, 'Tis from the heart that sentiment doth flow; All this you know, and better can explain, But, female like, you see I must be vain. I'll say no more—you will not criticise— Your heart is honest, and your head is wise; And gen'rous friendship can my faults excuse, Oft as you will th' following lines peruse; Let them my grateful thanks of tribute pay, For sense and sentiment's convey'd in play; And for morality—that better part, May ev'ry sentence search into my heart; That while I read I may the better grow, And thank that friend who did the gift bestow.