But gives to wit its vigour and its zest;

Then might we reason, might in turn display

Our several talents, and be wisely gay;

We might—but who a tame discourse regards,

When whist is named, and we behold the cards?

We from that time are neither grave nor gay;

60

Our thought, our care, our business is to play:

Fix'd on these spots and figures, each attends

Much to his partners, nothing to his friends.