John Byrom

The point is plain as a pike staff.

The point is plain as a pike staff.

God bless the King--I mean the faith's defender;
God bless (no harm in blessing) the pretender;
But read more

God bless the King--I mean the faith's defender;
God bless (no harm in blessing) the pretender;
But who the pretender is, or who is King--
God bless us all--that's quite another thing.

But who alas! can love and then be wise?

But who alas! can love and then be wise?

A hand may first, and then a lip be kiss'd.

A hand may first, and then a lip be kiss'd.

Rose, what is become of thy delicate hue?
And where is the violet's beautiful blue?
Does aught read more

Rose, what is become of thy delicate hue?
And where is the violet's beautiful blue?
Does aught of its sweetness the blossom beguile?
That meadow, those daisies, why do they not smile?