The Beggar. A Song.

I.

WHILE cruel to your wishing slave,You still refuse the boon I crave,Confess, what joy that precious pearlConveys to thee, my lovely girl?

II.

Dost thou not act the miser's part,Who with an aching, lab'ring heart,Counts the dull joyless shining store,Which he refuses to the poor?

III.

Confess then, my too lovely maid,Nor blush to see thy thoughts betray'd;What, parted with, gives heav'n to me;Kept, is but pain and grief to thee.

IV.

Be charitable then, and dareBestow the treasure you can spare;And trust the joys which you affordWill to yourself be sure restor'd.