Classic Poem

Shepherd ! if you see me, fly;
And why should that thy Fears create?
Maids may be too often shy,
As well in Love, as Hate.
If from you I fly away,
'Tis because I fear to stay.

II.

Should I out of Hatred run,
Much less would be my Pains and Care.
But the Youth I love, I shun;
Who can such a Trial bear?
Who, that such a Swain could see,
Or who can love, and fly like me!

III.

Cruel Duty bids me go,
But gentle Love commands my Stay,
Pity, still to Love a Foe;
O shall I this, or that obey?
Duty frowns, and Cupid smiles,
That destroys, but this beguiles.

IV.

Ever by this Crystal Stream,
O! I could sit me down and weep;
Ravish'd with the pleasing Theme,
O! 'tis worse than Death to sleep;
But the Danger is so great,
That Love gives Wings, instead of Hate.

V.

Shepherd! if you love me, leave me,
Leave me to my Self alone,
O! you may with Ease deceive me!
Prithee, charming Boy, be gone!
Heaven has decreed that we must part,
That has my Vows, but you my Heart.