Something for habits, manners, modes, allow?" -
"Yes! but allowing much, I much require,
In my behalf, for manners, modes, attire!"
"True, lovely Sybil; and, this point agreed,
Let me to those of greater weight proceed:
Thy father!"--"Nay," she quickly interposed,
"Good doctor, here our conference is closed!"
Then left the Youth, who, lost in his retreat,
Pass'd the good matron on her garden-seat;
His looks were troubled, and his air, once mild
And calm, was hurried: --"My audacious child!"
Exclaim'd the dame, "I read what she has done
In thy displeasure--Ah! the thoughtless one:
But yet, Josiah, to my stern good man
Speak of the maid as mildly as you can:
Can you not seem to woo a little while
The daughter's will, the father to beguile?
So that his wrath in time may wear away;
Will you preserve our peace, Josiah? say."
"Yes! my good neighbour," said the gentle youth,
"Rely securely on my care and truth;
And should thy comfort with my efforts cease,
And only then,--perpetual is thy peace."
The dame had doubts: she well his virtues knew,
His deeds were friendly, and his words were true:
"But to address this vixen is a task
He is ashamed to take, and I to ask."
Soon as the father from Josiah learn'd
What pass'd with Sybil, he the truth discern'd.
"He loves," the man exclaim'd, "he loves, 'tis plain,