Application of the Turtle and the Sparrow

O Dearest daughter of two dearest friends.
To thee, my muse, this little tale commends ;
Loving, and lov'd, regard thy future mate,
Long love his person, tho' deplore his fate.
Seem young, when old, in thy dear husband's arms.
For constant virtue has immortal charms ;
And when I lie low sepulcher'd in earth.
And the glad year returns thy day of birth.
Vouchsafe to say e'er I cou'd write or spell.
The Bard, who from my cradle wish'd me well.
Told me I should the prating Sparrow blame.
And bid me imitate the Turtle's fame.