Pierides, or, The muses mount by Hugh Crompton, Gent.

29. Wisdom.

THou matchless darling of the heavenly race, Minerva decked and adorn'd with grace And sacred beauty: thou that wilt not be Devirginated by the proudest he That e're assay'd with vigor or with tears: I have consum'd the morning of my years In wooing thee, yet am as far to win Thy sacred love, as when I did begin. I cleav'd the waters like a true Meander; I sought thee here, and did pursue thee yonder; Like poor Alphaeus I have followed thee, But Arethusa thou hast prov'd to me. I cannot gain thee, neither can I rest

••••ll thou residest in my longing breast. ••ow shall I win thee? how shall I obtain thee? ••hou glorious prize, what shall I do to gain thee? ••hou happy object, thou wilt not be sold ••or sums of silver, or for heaps of gold. ••he Indian Gems, or Neptunes Corals be ••f no esteem, of no validity ••o win this Paragon. 'Tis only Jove ••hat keeps her seated in his tower above, ••hat can procure her me; therefore I'le pray ••ato the King of Heaven, that I may ••e wise: Thou mover of Celestial motion, Attend to my petition and devotion: Thee I appeal to, under whose protection Remains the Mistress of my best affection. •• am in love, the object is thy daughter: ••ong have I woo'd, and longer have I sought her; ••ong have I wisht, and labour'd to obtain her; But my ignoble person cannot gain her. Do thou therefore be pleased to infuse My breast with her; do thou assist my Muse With heavenly wisedom; for she'l never be Attain'd for me, if not infus'd by thee.