University of Virginia Library

A Dialogue between a Marquess and a Saint.

Saint.
What course shall I steer? my Lord Marquess, advise;
I am sorely beset by a pair of blue Eyes.

Marquess.
But Eyes, blue or black, are for wearing the worse;
Perhaps they were brighter, when you was at nurse.

S.
Your Lordship must go; but alas! what shall I do?

M.
Why, leave the stale Maid, as Æneas left Dido.

S.
Her murder, like Dido's, may follow my flight;
And murder is sin, if my bible be right.

M.
Nay, a crying sin too; for you cry, my poor Brother.

S.
Just so I was melted at leaving my Mother.

M.
But the heart you have smitten, is too tough for breaking;
Or, happen what will, it is all her own seeking.

S.
My Conscience is eas'd; I resolve to retire,
And pray that despair may extinguish her fire.

M.
To have fir'd an old house, you may fairly be said;
But let not my Friend pull it over his head.