University of Virginia Library

A Parting Dialogue between a Sea Officer and his Lady.

HE.
From thy arms, my dearest dear!
From thy bosom, so sincere
I must fly, at freedom's call,
Briton-like, to fight the Gaul!
Tho' 'tis worse than death to part,
I must tear thee from my heart;
And, from this delightful shore,
Haste, where waves and cannons roar.

SHE.
When, all fondness to your breast,
First my panting heart you prest,
Thus you vow'd, My beauteous bride!
Only fate shall us divide!
Is the flame so soon estrang'd?
How, alas! is Lucy chang'd?
Poor these charms, that made thee mine,
If they can't thy love confine!

HE.
Thou art heav'n itself to me;
All my soul delights in thee;
But, like Roman consorts, know
What we to our country owe.
Britain cries, Protect my rights!
Glory prompts; revenge invites;
Then, my life, thy plaint forbear;
Cowards merit not the fair.

SHE.
Sure my loyalty I prove,
Thus to part with all I love;
Flatt'ring hope wou'd sooth my pain;—
Shall I clasp thee thus again?

HE.
Doubt it not, and comfort take;
Gods will shield me, for thy sake;
Angels! guard the peace and life,
Of my dear, my patriot wife!

DUETT.
God of war, propitious smile,
Bless our arms, and injur'd isle;
England still, impow'r'd by thee,
Shall be glorious, great, and free.