FROM A PAINTER.

My pencil I would take in hand

To paint a face so fair,

But all the skill I can command

Is useless I declare:

My blended colours when I view

And think upon thy face,

Carmine and pearl, at sight of you,

Must hold a distant place;

Yet if your portrait you will find,

Then with my wish comply,

Come hither, and, to ease my mind,

You’ll find it in each eye;

But far more perfect in my heart

Is that dear form of thine,

Then let me share an equal part

With thee, sweet Valentine.