Modern Devotion[47]

[By H. Salem]

To church I went, with good intent, To hear Sangrado preach and pray; But objects there, black, brown and fair, Turned eyes and heart a different way.

Miss Patty's fan, Miss Molly's man, With powdered hair and dimple cheek; Miss Bridget's eyes, that once made prize Of Fopling with his hair so sleek:

Embroidered gowns, and play-house tunes Estranged all hearts from heaven too wide: I felt most odd, this house of God Should all be flutter, pomp, and pride.

Now, pray be wise, no prayers will rise To heaven--where hearts are not sincere. No church was made for Cupid's trade; Then why these arts of ogling here?

Since time draws nigh, when you and I, At church, must claim the sexton's care!-- Leave pride at home, when'er you come To pay to heaven your offerings, there!

the edition of 1809.