Classic Poem

Upon a Lady's complaining of a severe Cold, caught at Dancing.

I.

Say, lovely F LAVIA , what's the Cause?
Those Eyes divinely bright,
Why thus eclips'd? — Alas! the Change!
The Change since Yester-night!

II.

How oft have I, with friendly Zeal,
Most anxious for your Life,
Exclaim'd — Avert from me, ye Gods!
Avert a Dancing Wife!

III.

Still you wou'd brave the Fairy Round,
Regardless of my Voice;
And with your laughing Sister mock,
The Folly of my Choice!

IV.

'Tis now too late — like ship-wreck'd Souls,
But just escap'd the Sea,
They view the Rock which split their Bark,
And you must think on ME.

V.

Act prudent for the Time to come,
Nor rashly sport with Health;
Learn to esteem that best of Joys,
Superior far to Wealth!

VI.

So shall your Life (which Heav'n defend)
With Ease and Comfort pass;
And Age itself come smiling on,
Without Reflection's Glass.