Classic Poem

‘How shall I make my way to Love's domain?’
Many the roads, but all are fraught with pain.
If in the streets you take the harlot's lure
Her endless greed for gold you must endure,
While if you go into a maiden's bed
The law awaits you, either pay or wed.
Adultery is sin, as gross as when
Men seek to find love's pleasure among men.
‘Well, what of marriage?’—Ah beware, my boy;
Love is a business there and not a joy.
‘A servant, then?’ Well, if she lives at home,
You'll find that she your mistress has become.
If she's another man's, the law says, nay;
A trespass on your neighbour's right of way.
‘That only leaves the widow!’—Yes, 'tis true:
And amours with a widow you will rue.

The wanton dames each man for lover try
And know too well the arts of harlotry.
Those that are modest scarcely will consent,
Stung by remorse, their loveless punishment.
They hate the deed accomplished and are fain
To break love's bonds and single be again.
‘Is there no way then that a man may take,
And so at last Love's haven safely make?’
Why, yes; remember what the wise man says,—
‘Be self-sufficient, friend, in all your ways.’