And O! to chear the hours of life,

Grant, mighty Heav’n! thy chiefest boon—

The blessing of a virtuous wife!

A gift, thou can’st not give too soon.

And, might I dare the choice define,

Pourtray the mouldings of her frame;

Let grace in every action shine,

And modesty her worth proclaim!

Let for good-nature passion still;

And mildness speak the feeling soul,