Poetical recreations consisting of original poems, songs, odes, &c. with several new translations : in two parts / part I, occasionally written by Mrs. Jane Barker, part II, by several gentlemen of the universities, and others.

The Preference of a Single Life before Marriage. Written at the Request of a Lady.

By the same.

SHE that intends ever in rest to be, Both for the present and the future, free From cares and troubles, intermix't with strife, Must flee the hazard of a Nuptial Life: For having once had touch of Cupid's Dart, Once overcome by th' crafty Courtier's Art; And brought at last unto the Nuptial Bed•• Adieu to Ioy and Freedom, for they're ••led. She's then involv'd in troubles without end, Which always do's a Married Life attend: When as before she might have liv'd at ease, In Prayers, and Hymns and Psalms have pass'd her days; Been chief Commandress of her Will and Mind, And acted any thing her Will design'd;

She might go travel where and when she please, To pass away the tedious time with ease: But when once subject to the Iugal Band, Her Wills confin'd, she's under a Command; And to reside at home must be her lot, Till Atropos unloose the Nuptial Knot.