Volume Ii Part 31 (1/2)

SONG

Come, Celia, let's agree at last To love and live in quiet; Let's tie the knot so very fast That time shall ne'er untie it.

Love's dearest joys they never prove, Who free from quarrels live; 'Tis sure a G.o.d like part of love Each other to forgive.

When least I seemed concerned I took No pleasure, nor had rest; And when I feigned an angry look, Alas! I loved you best.

Say but the same to me, you'll find How blest will be our fate; Sure to be grateful, to be kind, Can never be too late.

John Sheffield [1648-1721]

THE ENCHANTMENT

I did but look and love awhile, 'Twas but for one half-hour; Then to resist I had no will, And now I have no power.

To sigh and wish is all my ease; Sighs which do heat impart Enough to melt the coldest ice, Yet cannot warm your heart.

O would your pity give my heart One corner of your breast, 'Twould learn of yours the winning art, And quickly steal the rest.

Thomas Otway [1652-1685]

SONG

Only tell her that I love: Leave the rest to her and Fate: Some kind planet from above May perhaps her pity move: Lovers on their stars must wait.-- Only tell her that I love!

Why, O why should I despair!

Mercy's pictured in her eye: If she once vouchsafe to hear, Welcome Hope and farewell Fear!

She's too good to let me die.-- Why, O why should I despair?

John Cutts [1661-1707]

”FALSE THOUGH SHE BE”

False though she be to me and love, I'll ne'er pursue revenge; For still the charmer I approve, Though I deplore her change.

In hours of bliss we oft have met: They could not always last; And though the present I regret, I'm grateful for the past.

William Congreve [1670-1729]

TO SILVIA From ”The Cautious Lovers”