A strong and handsome stripling he became,
And the gay spirit answer’d to the frame;
A lighter, happier lad was never seen,
For ever easy, cheerful, or serene;
His early love he fix’d upon a fair
And gentle maid - they were a handsome pair.
They at an infant-school together play’d,
Where the foundation of their love was laid:
The boyish champion would his choice attend
In every sport, in every fray defend.