University of Virginia Library

To the Ladies.

ANACREONTICK.

Beneath this cool and fragrant Shade,
With Myrtles, and with Roses made;
While their od'rous Wreaths they spread,
In Chaplets growing round my Head,
While their mingling Sweets they join,
Bring me, Fair Ones, bring me Wine:
Wine that will inflame me more
Than all your Beauties did before.
See! it vig'rous Love supplies,
See! the kindling Spirits rise,
Dancing thro' my sparkling Eyes.
Now all your Nobler Ointments pour,
Now crown my Brows with ev'ry Flow'r.
Flow'rs crown my Brows,—but ah! what Art
Can cool the Burnings of my Heart!
In vain they try to ease my Pain,
Refreshing Garlands there are vain,
And Wine will ineffectual prove,
Wine that is Nourishment to Love.