from To Priapus: Elegies 1.iv

Far from the tender Tribe of Boys remove,

For they’ve a thousand ways to kindle Love.

This, pleases as he strides the manag’d Horse,

And holds the taughten’d Rein with early Force;

This, as he swims, delights thy Fancy best,

Raising the smiling Wave with snowy Breast:

This, with a comely Look and manly Airs;

And that with Virgin Modesty ensnares.

But if at first you find him not inclin’d

To Love, have Patience, Time will change his Mind.

*

And you, what’er your Fav’rite does, approve,

For Condescension leads the Way to love.

Go with him where he goes, tho’ long the Way,

And the fierce Dog-star fires the sultry Day;

Or the gay Rainbow girds the bluish Sky,

And threatens rattling Show’rs of Rain are nigh.

If sailing on the Water by his Will,

Then steer the Wherry with a dext’rous Skill:

Nor think it hard Fatigues and Pains to bear,

But still be ready with a willing Cheer.

If he’ll inclose the Vales for savage Spoils,

Then on thy Shoulders bear the Nets and Toils;

If Fencing be the Fav’rite Sport he’ll use,

Take up the Files, and artlessly oppose;

Seem as intent, yet oft expose your Breast,

Neglect your Guard, and let him get the best;

Then he’ll be mild, then you a Kiss may seize,

He’ll struggle, but at length comply with ease;

Reluctant, tho’ at first you’ll find him grow

Ev’n fond, when round your Neck his Arms he’ll throw.