Page:Odes on several subjects - Akenside (1745).djvu/25

Rh Ye guardian pow'rs of love and fame, This chaste, harmonious pair behold; And thus reward the gen'rous flame Of all who barter vows for gold. O bloom of youth and opening charms Well-buried in a dotard's arms! O worthy price of beauty sold!

Cease then to gaze, unthankful boy; Let, let her go, the venal fair! Unworthy she to give you joy; Then wherefore should she give you care? Lay, lay your myrtle garland down, And let the willow's virgin-crown With happier omens bind your hair.

O just escap'd the faithless main, Tho' driven unwilling on the land! To guid your favour'd steps again, Behold you better genius stand: Where author:Plato olive courts your eye, Where laurel blooms on high, He lifts his heav'n-directed hand.