I
[In sooth I'd with pleasure rehearse]
[_]
(Written in 1788, the author being then 10 years of age)
In sooth I'd with pleasure rehearse
The Atridae and Cadmus's fame,
If my lute would accord to my verse
And sound aught but Venus's name.
'Twas in vain that I changèd each string
To alter its amorous tone,
And began of Alcides to sing:
My lute warbled Venus alone.
I therefore my strains must renew
And accord to the lays of my lute;
So, ye Heroes, for ever adieu!
Love alone is the theme that can suit.
