THE ANSWER.
Tho’ you in my heart, Mr. Tanner, would glide,
I fear that you will tan my hide,
Which sure would kill this heart of mine,
If e’er you should, my Valentine.
Useful’s your art, I own ’tis true,
In making leather for the shoe;
But may not yet that useful art
As hard as leather tan your heart?
Howe’er, I’ll not inconstant prove,
But boldly venture on my love:
So tenderly your heart incline,
And be my gentle Valentine.