Page:Poems - Lewis (1812).djvu/61

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TO THE HON. CHARLES W. S———.

 

While Youth's gay visions charm your view;
While Health and Strength and Peace are yours;
While Fortune's smile for all you do,
The venal World's applause secures;

While Honour guides your steps to Fame,
And Pleasure strows your couch with flowers,
Friendship withdraws her humbler claim,
And yields to Love and War your hours.

But should the world applaud no more,
Or fleeting Health elude your arms;
Should Slander make your feelings sore,
Or withering Glory lose her charms;