Classic Poem

Six of the Femal sex, and purer sect,
Had conference of late to this effect,
How they might change the Popish Name of Preaching?
Then quoth the first it shall be called Teaching .
The second newly warm'd with heavenly Nectar ,
Fell to commend the sacred name of Lecture .
The third not half so learned, yet full as wise,
Said, she likt it best to call't The Exercise .
Nay, quoth the fourth, the Brethren, as I hear,
Do term it Speaking in Northampton-shire .
The fifth with none of these yet did accord,
But term'd it purely handling of the Word .
Then, quoth the sixth ( Standing ) a name most fit;
For Preachers in the Pulpit seldome sit.
For Application then, quoth they, we fear
Our selves not sufficient th' use to bear,
Nor to conceive the meaning of some man;
Some able Brethren we must have, who can,
Being full of Spirit, Minister supply,
And help 'gainst our Carnal infirmity;
Repeat the Business, and all faults redresse;
Such, who with zeal and heat can fully presse
The Point home, that so the Case being clear,
We may remember't sweetly many a year.
And though in Concord Frailties we oft fall,
The help of such good men will raise us all,
By putting in New strength and life, whereby
Being edified, We grow and fructifie.
Thus the Six Sisters did at last consent,
And so departed thence Incontinent .