The Bracelet

Rebellious fools that scorn to bow
Beneath Love's easy sway,
Whose stubborn wills no laws allow,
Disdaining to obey,
Mark but this wreath of hair, and you shall see,
None that might wear such fetters would be free!

I once could boast a soul like you,
As unconfin'd as air;
But mine, which force could not subdue,
Was caught within this snare;
And, by myself betray'd, I, for this gold,
A heart that many storms withstood, have sold.

No longer now wise Art inquire,
With this vain search delighted,
How souls, that human breasts inspire,
Are to their frames united;
Material chains such spirits well may bind,
When this soft braid can tie both arm and mind

Now, Beauties, I defy your charm,
Rul'd by more powerful art:
This mystic wreath which crowns my arm,
Defends my vanquish'd heart;
And I, subdu'd by one more fair, shall be
Secur'd from Conquest by Captivity.