146 THE lover’s offering, 
Their daughters should never dishonour their 
houses, 
By taking such rabble as these for their spouses! 
At length my Lord Sunflower, whom public 
opinion 
Confessed as the pride of the blooming dominion, 
Avowed an affection he’d often betrayed 
For sweet Lady Lily, the queen of the shade ; 
And said, should her friends nor the public with¬ 
stand, 
He would dare to solicit her elegant hand 
A whisper, like that which on fine summer eves 
Young zephyrs address to the frolicsome leaves, 
Immediately ran through the whole congregation, 
Expressive of pleasure and high approbation. 
No line was degraded, no family pride 
Insulted, by either the bridegroom or bride, 
For in him was all majesty, beauty and splendour, 
In her all was elegant, simple, and tender. 
Now nothing remained but to win her consent, 
And Miss Iris her friend as the messenger went, 
The arts of entreaty and argument trying, 
Till at length she returned, and announced her 
complying. 
Complete satisfaction the tidings conveyed, 
And whispers and dimples the pleasure displayed. 
Will Cockscomb, indeed, and a few Powdered 
Beaux, 
Who were uot little vain of their figure and clothes, 
