University of Virginia Library


67

To Mrs. Page

When a tyrant complains
Of a forger of chains
What mortal believes him sincere!
Since we know 'tis his trade
To make others afraid,
And chains to impose—not to wear.
When a master of arts
To his pupil imparts
A science he thoroughly knows;
How grateful the youth
To the teacher of truth,
For what he so kindly bestows?
In you Madam Page,
The tyrant and sage,
As in Pericles, seem to unite.
'Gainst chains while you preach
Your fair pupil to teach,
That art, in which all must delight.
Dec. 10, 1812