Songs, Song X

How blest has my time been, whatdays have I known, Since wedlock's soft bondage made Jesse my own! So joyful my heart is, so easy my chain, That freedom is tasteless and roving a pain.

Thro' walks grown with woodbines as often we stray Around us our boys and girls frolick and play; How pleasing their sport is the wanton ones see, And borrow their looks from my Jesse and me.

To try her sweet temper sometimes am I seen In revels all day with the nymphs on the green; Tho' painful my absence my doubts she beguiles, And meets me at night with compliance and smiles.

What tho' on her cheek the rose loses its hue, Her ease and good humour bloom all the year thro'; Time still as he flies brings increase to her truth, And gives to her mind what he steals from her youth.

Ye Shepherds so gay! who make love to ensnare, And cheat with false vows the too credulous fair, In search of true pleasure how vainly you roam! To hold it for life you must find it at home.