Page:Tea, a poem.pdf/3

3 The further indulged, will still further encroach. Since this "theif of the world" has made off with your bloom; And left you some seorescore [sic] of stale years in its room— Has deprived you of all those gay dreams, that would dance In your brains at fifteen, and your bosoms entrance; And has forced you almost to renounce in despair The hope of a husband's affection and care! Since such is the case, and a case rather hard! Permit one who holds you in special regard To furnish such hints in your loveless estate As may shelter your names from detraction and hate. Too often our maidens, grown aged I ween, Indulge to excess in the workings of spleen; And at times when annoy'd by the slights of mankind, Work off their resentment—by speaking their mind: Assemble together in snuff—taking clan, And hold round the tea-urn a solemn divan A convention of tattling—a tea party hight,