A collection of the choicest epigrams and characters of Richard Flecknoe being rather a new work, then [sic] a new impression of the old.
Flecknoe, Richard, d. 1678?
To a fair Lady against Masquerading.
SUre 'twas some one, who was asham'd, and durst
Not shew her face, invented Masking first:
And since t'has been a common Custome made
By such as those, to go in Masquerade,
But such as you, and all fair things were made
To shine i'th' light, and not lie hid i'th' shade.
Night's dark enough, and there's more need to add
New light unto't, than t'have it darker made.
And y'ave a Beauty, that's so fair and bright,
It is enough to make a day of night.
Beauty's a Heavenly thing, and those who wou'd
Hide that, wou'd hide Heaven from us, if they cou'd!
Not to be guilty of that envious sin,
Unmask your Mask, and let your Face be seen.
Page 57Or, if you needs will hide it, you may find
A speedier way, shew it, and strike us blind.
That were a nobler way for you and us,
You to be hidden, and we blinded thus.
