I once was persuaded a venture to make;
A letter inform’d me that all was to wreck;—
But the pursy old landlord just waddled up stairs,
With a glorious bottle that ended my cares.

VI.

“Life’s cares they are comforts,”[136]—a maxim laid down
By the bard, what d’ye call him, that wore the black gown;
And faith I agree with th’ old prig to a hair;
For a big-bellied bottle’s a heav’n of care.

VII.

ADDED IN A MASON LODGE.

Then fill up a bumper and make it o’erflow.
The honours masonic prepare for to throw;
May every true brother of the compass and square
Have a big-bellied bottle when harass’d with care!

FOOTNOTES:

[136] Young’s Night Thoughts.

XXIV.

ELIZA.