Classic Poem

ADDRESSED TO THE HONOURABLE MISS * * * * * *, IN CONSEQUENCE
OF HER BEING OFFENDED AT THE AUTHOR'S SALUTING HER, AT A
FRIEND'S TABLE, AFTER SUPPER .

When pleasure dances in the sparkling eye,
And the gay moments innocently fly;
While social intercourse unbends the heart,
And nature speaks without the veil of art;
If strongly tempted by this scene of bliss,
Th' unguarded mortal dares to snatch a kiss!
Though rigid custom should the deed disown,
And nature claim it for her act alone,
The gen'rous bosom may th' offence forgive,
Disarm the frown, and bid th' offender live.
Yet while contrition marks your suppliant's pray'r,
Who honours prudence in the youthful fair;
May no cold maxims ever disapprove
The kiss of friendship! or the sigh of love!