John Gay

Let firm, well hammer'd soles protect thy feet
Through freezing snows, and rains, and soaking sleet;
Should read more

Let firm, well hammer'd soles protect thy feet
Through freezing snows, and rains, and soaking sleet;
Should the big last extend the shoe too wide,
Each stone will wrench the unwary step aside;
The sudden turn may stretch the swelling vein,
The cracking joint unhinge, or ankle sprain;
And when too short the modish shoes are worn,
You'll judge the seasons by your shooting corn.

How many saucy airs we meet,
From Temple Bar to Aldgate street!

How many saucy airs we meet,
From Temple Bar to Aldgate street!

A woman scorn'd is pitiless as fate,
For then the dread of shame adds stings to hate.

A woman scorn'd is pitiless as fate,
For then the dread of shame adds stings to hate.

That Raven on yon left-hand oak
(Curse on his ill-betiding croak)
Bodes me no good.

That Raven on yon left-hand oak
(Curse on his ill-betiding croak)
Bodes me no good.

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.