When the Fox Dies, His Skin Counts

WE young people in the shade
Sat one sultry day;
Cupid came, and "Dies the Fox"
With us sought to play.
Each one of my friends then sat

By his mistress dear;
Cupid, blowing out the torch,
Said: "The taper's here!"
Then we quickly sent around

The expiring brand;
Each one put it hastily
ln his neighbour's hand.
Dorilis then gave it me,

With a scoffing jest;
Sudden into flame it broke,
By my fingers press'd.
And it singed my eyes and face,

Set my breast on fire;
Then above my head the blaze
Mounted ever higher.
Vain I sought to put it out;

Ever burned the flame;
Stead of dying, soon the Fox
Livelier still became.