Classic Poem

She took the Hint; (what Lovers now can find
That nat'ral Tendency in Woman-kind?)
First seem'd to frown, but easily grew mild,
And, conscious of her own Perfections, smil'd.
Then turns her Head with graceful Scorn away,
But quick returning, doth her self betray;
And in Love's greatest Eloquence replies,
The silent Language of consenting Eyes.
With Joy amaz'd, the Youth his Passion knew
At once discover'd, and successful too;
Impatient grown, he chid the tedious Light,
And wish'd the swift approaches of the Night:
Nor wish'd in vain; soon the bright Hesper shone,
And love-obliging Shades came rushing on.
Darkness can Fears expel, and Hopes renew;
Th' emboldened Lover to his Quarry flew,
And there stood Face to Face, a glorious Interview.
Then all on Fire her Hand he gently press'd,
And Sighs and dying Murmurs told the rest.
Starting she did a short Resentment feign,
And with a Frown drew back her Head again.
But he, with Love inspir'd, new Joys descries
Thro' the thin Umbrage of a forc'd Disguise;
And seiz'd her Robe, and full of pleasing Thought
The last Recesses of the Temple sought.
With Steps unequal she advanc'd behind,
And with a willing, half unwilling Mind,
Threaten'd the Youth; at once Severe and Kind.
Stranger, what Madness doth thy Breast invade?
Whither, ah! whither would you force a Maid?
Let loose my Garments quick, and home retire;
Flee the Displeasure of my wealthy Sire:
If that you slight, and mortal Pow'r disown,
Vex not the Priestess, lest the Goddess frown.
Go, be not with presumptuous Thoughts mis-led;
'Tis bold aspiring to a Virgin's Bed.
True to her Sex, thus chid the charming Fair,
But glad Leander could such Chidings bear:
This seeming Storm a future Calm betrays;
Th' auspicious Omen of his Halcyon Days.
For Women soon are kind, if peevish grown;
Faintly they struggle, when their Rage is gone.