The Canoness

There is a Way which seemeth Right unto a Man; but the End thereof are the Ways of Death.

Proverbs xiv. 12.

An Apostrophe to Death.

Why dost thou, pale and envious Death,
A sacred Maid affright?
Small Glory to thee can arise
From Victories so slight.

Go hence, let sick or aged Men
Thy fatal Dart employ;
But let this Virgin, innocent,
Life’s Pleasures long enjoy.

Pleasure and Joy her jocund Youth
Should ardently pursue;
The Pleasures of the Marriage-Bed
To her gay Youth are due.