Metamorphosis

When Damon woo'd the growing Charms
Of lovely Celia to his Arms,
He lived in Dread the While;
He trembled at a Rival's Name
And felt Distress, if any came
To catch a transient Smile.

The gentle Maid at Length complied;
And "why is Damon hurt?" she cry'd,
"That I his Rivals see?"
"Because I dread," said he, "my Dear,
Thy Person should to them appear
"As it appears to me."--

They married, and their Love decay'd;
For then the Slattern Wife repaid
The Husband's Scorn and Slight;
While he to other Scenes retir'd,
And kept her whom he once admir'd
From every Stranger's Sight.

But "why," the Wife indignant cry'd,
"Am I insulted and denied
Our Friends or Foes to see?"--
"Because I feel a prudent fear
Thy Person should to all appear
As it appears to me."