SONNET I. THE WORLD.
Intended as an Apology for not writing a Prixe-Poem, by a Lady at Bath-Easton.
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The attribution of this poem is questionable.
Wide habitation of the Sons of Men,
Wherein the seeds of vice and virtue lie
Mix'd, like the undigested elements
Ere Chaos lost his kingdom; where blind Chance
With Passion holds divided anarchy;
O! who may rightly scan thee or describe!
Subject ill-suited to a Virgin's Muse,
That cannot praise, and is to blame untaught!
Wherefore from this unprofitable theme
She turns, leaving unsung its arguments;
Save that with careless hand her lute she strikes
Lightly; nor hoping that the myrtle wreath
Shall crown her unpremeditated lay.