Then let us drink, and let us love,
And daily Cupid's joys improve,
So happily we'll pass through life,
Devoid of care, devoid of strife.
Dear Betty, oft you've known me stop,
When you've been twirling round your mop;
Your rosy cheeks and arms so plump,
Make my poor heart go thump-a-thump;
Then, dearest Betty, now incline
To be my faithful Valentine.
Start not, good madam, nor unkindly frown;
The portrait's like, by all it is well-known,—
Lillies and roses in this fine face view,
Which, be assured, does not resemble you;
Yes, red and white this charming face adorn,
Though they in you their usual places scorn:
The lily's hue o'er all thy cheek is spread,
Whilst round thy eyes we see a lively red;
What though no diamond lustre deek your eyes,
Or the celestial blue that paints the skies—
Though black or hazel be not in them seen,
They wear, like pussy, a gay gooseberry green;
And nature did one gem for you compose,
She placed a flaming ruby on—your nose.
Suppose, my dashing lady fair,
We a compromise make;
I'll cast away my stays,
If you to decent dress will take.
'Gainst folly you in vain exclaim,
And yet the path pursue;
If converts you do wish to gain,
Pray preach and practice too.
Once more resume the British dress,
On foreign modes pray trample;
When you, dear madam, show your sense,
I'll follow the example.
