The Reply to Louisa of the Adelphi

Alas! ye gods! but thus the Fates decree,
Her I adore should prove unkind to me;
Forc'd from her arms, for ever to lament,
Yet would she smile, methinks I'd be content:
In some sequester'd grove to build a bower,
And ever curse the hapless, hapless hour
On which Louisa's charms I did behold,
Then be my woe in the Adelphi told.
" Let love's soft god my ardent wishes hear,
" And grant the smiles of an angelic fair;
" Sweet in her disposition tho' unkind,
" And ev'ry grace enrich Louisa's mind;
" A graceful air her beauteous steps attend,
" By all esteem'd, and wish'd for as a friend. "
By all ador'd, at least I bear my part,
Heavens convey my feelings to her heart.
O let the maid partake the pangs I feel,
One smile from her my spirit soon shall heal;
Serenity and peace of mind restore,
Grant this Louisa, and I ask no more;
Ah! cruel maid, let me this favour find;
For why, unto a youth, thus prove unkind?
You know each frown a fatal stab doth give,
Why then disdainful dost thou bid me live;
And seek another maid, who might excell
The fair in whom my fondest wishes dwell?
Ah! hapless youth, thus disregarded, mourn,
For one that triumphs in the trophies won;
But tho' despair shall keep thee from my arms,
In secret anguish I'll adore thy charms.
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