The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 17/Epigram in a Maid of Honour's Prayer Book

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While this work is included within The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift and is not attributed to anyone other than Jonathan Swift, it may have been written by another member of the Scriblerus Club. The club, which was founded in 1714, included Jonathan Swift, Alexander Pope, John Gay, John Arbuthnot, Henry St John, and Thomas Parnell.

1676937The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 17
— Epigram in a Maid of Honour's Prayer Book
c. 1710-1730Jonathan Swift

EPIGRAM,

IN A MAID OF HONOUR'S PRAYER BOOK.

WHEN Israel's daughters mourn'd their past offences,
They dealt in sackcloth, and turn'd cinder-wenches:
But Richmond's fair ones never spoil their locks;
They use white powder, and wear Holland smocks.
O comely church! where females find clean linen
As decent to repent in, as to sin in.