Mix'd with each Glass some inoffensive Chat,
Talk'd of the World's Affairs, but still kept free
From Passion, Zeal, or Partiality;
With honest freedom did our thoughts dispense,
And judg'd of all things with indifference;
Till time at last did our Delights invade,
And in due season separation made,
Then without Envy, Discord or Deceit,
Part like true Friends as loving as we meet.
The Tavern change to a domestick scene,
That sweet Retirement, tho it's ne'er so mean.
Thus leave each other in a Cheerful Plight,
T' enjoy the silent Pleasures of the Night,
When home return'd, my Thanks to Heaven pay,
For all the past kind Blessing of the Day;
No haughty Help-mate to my Peace molest,
No treacherous Snake to harbour in my Breast:
No fawning Mistress of the Female Art,
With _Judas_ Kisses to betray my Heart;
No light-tail'd Hypocrite to raise my Fears,
No vile Impert'nence to torment my Ears;
No molted Off spring to disturb my Thought,
In Wedlock born but G----d knows where begot;
No lustful _Massalina_ to require
Whole Troops of Men to feed her Brutal Fire?
No Family Cares my quiet to disturb;
No Head-strong Humours to asswage or Curb
No Jaring Servants, no Domestick strife, }
No Jilt, no Termagent, no Faithless Wife, }
With Vinegar or Gall, to sowre or bitter Life. }