Poems, chiefly consisting of satyrs and satyrical epistles by Robert Gould.

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THE pious Endeavours of the Gown have not prov'd more ineffectual towards reclaiming the Errors of a vitious Age, than Satyr (the better way, though less practised) the amendment of Honesty and good Manners among us: Nor is it a wonder, when we consider that Women (as if they had the Ingredi∣ent of Fallen-Angel in their Composition) the more they are lash't, are but the more hardned in Impeni∣tence: And as Children, in some violent Distemper, commonly spit out those cherishing Cordials, which, if taken, might chase away the Malady, so they (inspir'd, as 'twere, with a natural averseness to Vertue) despise that wholsome counsel, which is religiously design'd for their future good and happiness. Iudge, then, if Satyr ever had more need of a sharper sting than now, when he can look out of his Cell on no side, but sees so many Objects beyond the reach of Indignation. Nor is it altogether unreasonable for me (while others are lashing the Rebellious times into obedience) to have one fling at Woman, the original of Mischief. I am sensible, I might as well expect to see Truth and Ho∣nesty uppermost in the World, as think to be free from the bitterness of their Resentments; But I have no reason to be concern'd at that; since, I'm certain, my design's as far from offending the good (if there are

any among them that can be said to be so) as those few that are good wou'd be offended at their Reception into Bliss, to be there crown'd with the happy reward of their Labours. As for those that are ill, if it gall them, it succeeds according to my wish; for I have no other design but the amendment of Vice, which if I cou'd but, in the least, accomplish, I shou'd be well pleas'd, and not without reason too; for it must needs be some satisfaction to a young, unskilful Archer, to hit the first mark he ever aim'd at.