I to my favour often used to take— }
And was, vile world! my character at stake? }
If such reports my Sailor’s ear should reach,
What jealous thoughts and fancies may they teach;
If without cause ill-judging men suspect,
What may not all these harmless Truths effect?
And what, my Delia, if our virtues fail,
What must we fear if conscious we are frail?
And well you know, my friend, nor fear t’ impart,
The tender frailties of the yielding heart. 50