Fragment LXXXIX: I cannot warble like a nightingale

I cannot warble like a nightingale ;
This voice of mine, I fear, is like to fail,
With rambling on a revel late at night.
I shall not make a poor excuse, to slight
Your piper’s art and practice ; but the friend
That ought to bear his part here, and attend,
In fact is absent. I must do my best;
And put my talent fairly to the test.
So, praying to the gods for help and grace,
Close to the piper’s side I take my place.