The Borough

by George Crabbe

To smooth rough ways the constant pioneer;

The ever-tempting, soothing, softening power,

Ready to cheat, seduce, deceive, devour.

“Me has the sly Seducer oft withstood,”

Said pious Jachin, - “but he gets no good;

I pass the house where swings the tempting sign,

And pointing, tell him, ‘Satan, that is thine:’

I pass the damsels pacing down the street,

And look more grave and solemn when we meet;

Nor doth it irk me to rebuke their smiles,