Classic Poem

Simply attired in Nature's strictest garb,
Fair Truth emerged from out her sheltering well;
But Time so many of her charms had touched
That age and youth before her presence fled:
And no asylum showed an open door
Of welcome to the waif of shivering limb.
Sudden upon her sight a vision breaks —
Gay Fable richly robed, and pranked withal
In plumes and jewels — mostly false 'tis true,
But bright enough. " Ah, is it you, my friend?
How do? " quo' she, " but why upon the road.
" And all alone? "
" You see I freeze, " says Truth,
" And yet of those who pass I but implore
A simple shelter, but I frighten them.
Alas! I see an aged woman gains
But small consideration! "
" Younger than I, "
Saith Fable, " are you? Yet I may aver,
Without conceit, that everywhere
I am received with joy. But Mistress Truth,
Why did you brave the light in such scant robe?
'Twas most ill-judged. Come, let's arrange for both,
Since the same end is aim for me as you;
Get 'neath my cloak, and we'll together walk.
Thus, for your sake, I shall not by the wise
Be buffeted; and for my sake, you shall
Be well received among the simpler sort.
Thus every one his proper taste may suit,
And by these means each shall her end attain,
Thanks to your sense, and my amusing speech.
And you will see, my sister, everywhere
We shall be well received, in company. "