Classic Poem

Ah how could love so well disguise
And borrow friendship's sacred name,
To marr my hopes and blast my joys,
And kindle in my soul this flame.

Or rather say, my foolish heart
Why dost thou fly to earthly good,
To sooth thy anguish, heal thy smart
And leave thy passion unsubdued.

Go seek religion, heav'n-born maid,
Thy early friend, thy youthful guide,
And she will lend her wonted aid,
And make this tumult soon subside.

She and her sister reason fair
Will lead thee to the calm abode
Of smiling peace, where gloomy care
Ne'er found an inlet or a road.
There with the spirits of the vale,
Thro' beauteous verdant shades we'll rove,
And to the rural graces tell,
Unmov'd the story of our love.

The murmuring gales shall drop a tear,
And Echo still prolong my woe;
While he that's to my heart so dear
The cause of absence ne'er shall know.