Page:Oxford Book of English Verse 1250-1918.djvu/529

 MATTHEW PRIOR

LISETTA'S REPLY Sure Chloe just, and Chloe fair, Deserves to be your only care; But, when you and she to-day Far into the wood did stray, And I happened to pass by, Which way did you cast your eye? But, when your cares to her you sing, You dare not tell her whence they spring; Does it not more afflict your heart, That in those cares she bears a part? When you the flowers for Chloe twine, Why do you to her garland join The meanest bud that falls from mine? Simplest of swains' the world may see Whom Chloe loves, and who loves me.

To a Child of Quality Five Years Old, 2704. The Author then Forty ORDS, knights, and squires, the numerous band

That wear the fair Miss Mary's fetters, Were summoned by her high command To show their passions by their letters.

My pen amongbt the rest 1 took,

Lebt those bright eyes, that cannot read,

Should dart their kindling fire, and look The power they have to be obcy'd.

Nor quality, nor reputation,

Forbid me yet my flame to tell; Dear Five-years-old befriends my passion,

And I may write till she can spell.

�� �