Arthur Quiller-Couch, ed. 1919. The Oxford Book of English Verse: 1250–1900.
Matthew Prior. 16641721422. The Question to Lisetta
WHAT nymph should I admire or trust, | |
But Chloe beauteous, Chloe just? | |
What nymph should I desire to see, | |
But her who leaves the plain for me? | |
To whom should I compose the lay, | 5 |
But her who listens when I play? | |
To whom in song repeat my cares, | |
But her who in my sorrow shares? | |
For whom should I the garland make, | |
But her who joys the gift to take, | 10 |
And boasts she wears it for my sake? | |
In love am I not fully blest? | |
Lisetta, prithee tell the rest. | |
Sure Chloe just, and Chloe fair, | |
Deserves to be your only care; | 15 |
But, when you and she to-day | |
Far into the wood did stray, | |
And I happen’d to pass by, | |
Which way did you cast your eye? | |
But, when your cares to her you sing, | 20 |
You dare not tell her whence they spring: | |
Does it not more afflict your heart, | |
That in those cares she bears a part? | |
When you the flowers for Chloe twine, | |
Why do you to her garland join | 25 |
The meanest bud that falls from mine? | |
Simplest of swains! the world may see | |
Whom Chloe loves, and who loves me. |