John Gay

Lash'd into Latin by the tingling rod.

Lash'd into Latin by the tingling rod.

Good housewives all the winter's rage despise,
Defended by the riding-hood's disguise;
Or, underneath the umbrella's oily read more

Good housewives all the winter's rage despise,
Defended by the riding-hood's disguise;
Or, underneath the umbrella's oily shade,
Safe through the wet on clinking pattens tread,
Let Persian dames the unbrella's ribs display,
To guard their beauties from the sunny ray;
Or sweating slaves support the shady load,
When eastern monarchs show their state abroad;
Britain in winter only knows its aid,
To guard from chilling showers the walking maid.

Cowards are cruel, but the brave
Love mercy, and delight to save.

Cowards are cruel, but the brave
Love mercy, and delight to save.

Fair is the kingcup that in meadow blows,
Fair is the daisy that beside her grows.

Fair is the kingcup that in meadow blows,
Fair is the daisy that beside her grows.

To frame the little animal, provide
All the gay hues that wait on female pride:
Let Nature read more

To frame the little animal, provide
All the gay hues that wait on female pride:
Let Nature guide thee; sometimes golden wire
The shining belles of the fly require;
The peacock's plumes thy tackle must not fail,
Nor the dear purchase of the sable's tail.