Classic Poem

To Delia

Say, lovely Delia, dare I sue,
In hopes my suit to gain?
Ah! could I raise a sigh from you,
My efforts were not vain.

Dare an unknown intruder plead? —
Ah! bid me not refrain;
Since Hope compels me to proceed,
You'll spurn not with disdain.

Behold, fair Delia, at thy feet,
A humble suppliant sighs,
Whose anxious fears too plainly speak,
If Delia frowns he dies.

Sweet Virtue's lodg'd within his breast,
That sacred pledge of truth;
And Constancy, the charming guest,
Attends the faithful youth.

Yet still he pines for one dear maid,
Oh! grant him quick relief!
No more let care his breast invade,
Since you can soothe his grief.

Since Delia's sovereign of his heart,
Be kind, ye pow'rs above,
And take a wretched captive's part,
Whose only fault is love.English