Anne Finch, Countess of Winchilsea (1661–1720)

PERSUADE me not, there is a grace

Proceeds from Silvia’s voice or lute,

Against Miranda’s charming face

To make her hold the least dispute.

Music, which tunes the soul for love,

And stirs up all our soft desires,

Does but the glowing flame improve,

Which pow’rful beauty first inspires.

Thus, whilst with art she plays, and sings

I to Miranda, standing by,

Impute the music of the strings,

And all the melting words apply.