Young Raymond late a bracelet found,
On Pleasure's light and airy ground;
And thus its motto did declare,
" Present the Fairest of the Fair. "

The youth in rapture flew to find
The fair whose heart display'd her mind,
Resolv'd the maid the prize should gain,
Who could the motto clear explain.

Belinda claim'd the prize her due,
For virtues which she never knew;
And prudish Chloe, form'd by pride,
Despis'd it, ogled, sneer'd, and sigh'd!

Coquet Marian, deck'd in smiles,
Spreads around her various wiles;
But coy Miranda, prim demure,
Attempts to scorn a gift so poor.

But see a lovely maid appears,
Tis blushing Julia, clad in fears,
Trembling like the fluttering dove,
Born to captivate — born to love.

Ah! youth beware, in ambush lies
A thousand darts in Julia's eyes;
And fain she'd urge her modest plea,
But that was Raymond left for thee.

The youth, with cautious nice precision,
Examines each, and makes decision;
Directed by great Nature's voice,
Submissive bow'd, and made his choice:

" Permit me, Julia! " Raymond cried,
(And on her arm the bracelet tied)
For Virtue, fair one, bids thee wear
This gift — as " Fairest of the Fair! "