Beds of roses/The choice of a husband

The CHOICE of a HUSBAND.

SInce honour has attended us upon the marriage state
And from the torch of Hymen our happiness we date
If e'er the Fates ordain it that I should be a wife,
The picture I will draw of the partner of my life,
⁠Then I'd live no longer single,
⁠Cou'd but my influence,
⁠A conquest gain o'er such a swain,
⁠Endu'd with manly sense.
⁠Then I'd live no longer single.

The fop, the beau, the fribble cou'd ne'er my fancy take
Nor yet did I admire the rattle headed rake;
But to guard himself from infsult, I'd have him bold & brave,
To wink at little foibles that I may chance to have.
⁠Then I'd live no longer single, &c.

⁠His person in proportion, more robust than fine,
A sort of easy carelessness, deportment to incline:
And affably and candidly, share all my joys & cares,
And give me my prerogative in family affairs.
⁠Then I'd live no longer single, &c.

⁠His conversation fraught with endearing sentiments,
Free from the pedant's stiffness, or rude impertinence,
In all his lawful dealing, let honour still preside,
Frugal in economy, let prudence be his guide.
⁠Then I'd live no longer single, &c.

⁠His principles untainted, his morals just & found,
And one in whom the dictates of honesty is found!
I value not the glaring of wealth and pageantry;
But plac'd above necessity is just enough for me.
⁠Then I'd live no longer single, &c.

⁠Could you but recommend me to such a swain as this
I'd think myself arriv'd at the summit of all bless;
And for his health and welfare for ever I would pray,
And think myself in duty bound to love & to obey.
⁠Then I'd live no longer single, &c.