the gift，诗歌

正文

The Gift

TO IRIS, IN BOW STREET, CONVENTGARDEN

1

SAY, cruel IRIS, pretty rake,

Dear mercenary beauty,

What annualofferingshall I make,

Expressive of my duty?

2

My heart, a victim to thine eyes, 5

Should I at once deliver,

Say, would the angry fair one prize

The gift, who slights the giver?

3

A bill, a jewel, watch, or toy,

My rivals give--and let 'em; 10

If gems, or gold, impart a joy,

I'll give them--when I get 'em.

4

I'll give--but not the full-blown ro,

Or ro-bud more in fashion;

Such short-liv'd offerings but disclo 15

A transitory passion.

5

I'll give thee something yet unpaid,

Not less sincere, than civil:

I'll give thee--Ah! too charming maid,

I'll give thee--To the devil. 20