Poems and Essays

by Joseph Howe

EPIGRAMS. [On being told by a Lady that the face was an index to the mind.]
	Although you protest it again and again, I still must believe you are jesting, For what must thy exquisite volume contain When the Index is so interesting?
—— PATIENCE.
Tim says that the maid who first kindled a flame Of desire in his heart was called Patience by name, But at length Tim discovered this beautiful creature, Who was patience by name was impatience by nature.
—— THE ROSE AND THE THORN.
	The vermeil cheeks, Janette, I swear, Deep blushing as the morn, Like two fair rose buds do appear, Thy nose portrays the thorn. [Page 184]
—— TO A LADY. [Whose eyes were remarkably small.]
	Your little eyes, with which, fair maid, Strict watch on me you’re keeping, Were never meant to look, I’m ’fraid They’re only fit for peeping.
—— PRECEPT AND EXAMPLE.
	Renounce the world, old Cassock cries, With vice and folly it abounds; But yet, in worldly vanities, Cassock spends Twenty Thousand Pounds.
—— ON A MISER. [Who was very ugly.]
	“He grinds the faces of the poor,” Said Ned with solemn tone. “Does he?” said Dick. “I’m very sure He’d better grind his own.” [Page 185]