Is a question that plagues not me, as I laze,

And on their graceful movement gaze.

'Tis the happiest hour of the sultry year:

The swift oars twinkle; I smoke and steer.

Row, beauties, row! 'Tis uncommon hot:

I can row stroke, but I'd rather not.

As we meet the sunset's afterglow,

Two absolute angels seem to row;

Wingless they are, so of flight no fear—

Home to dinner I mean to steer.