Chapter 9

SHOWING CUPID’S CONQUEST OVER A COY LADY OF FIVE THOUSAND A YEAR.

BACHELORS of every station, Mark this strange and true relation, Which in brief to you I bring,— Never was a stranger thing!

You shall find it worth the hearing; Loyal love is most endearing, When it takes the deepest root, Yielding charms and gold to boot.

Some will wed for love of treasure; But the sweetest joy and pleasure Is in faithful love, you’ll find, Gracèd with a noble mind.

Such a noble disposition Had this lady, with submission, Of whom I this sonnet write, Store of wealth, and beauty bright.

She had left, by a good grannum, Full five thousand pounds per annum, Which she held without control; Thus she did in riches roll.

Though she had vast store of riches, Which some persons much bewitches, Yet she bore a virtuous mind, Not the least to pride inclined.

Many noble persons courted This young lady, ’tis reported; But their labour proved in vain, They could not her favour gain.

Though she made a strong resistance, Yet by Cupid’s true assistance, She was conquered after all; How it was declare I shall.

Being at a noble wedding, Near the famous town of Redding, {92} A young gentleman she saw, Who belongèd to the law.

As she viewed his sweet behaviour, Every courteous carriage gave her New addition to her grief; Forced she was to seek relief.

Privately she then enquired About him, so much admired; Both his name, and where he dwelt,— Such was the hot flame she felt.

Then, at night, this youthful lady Called her coach, which being ready, Homewards straight she did return; But her heart with flames did burn.