The poem
(* The name of a game, known in English as "Jack's alight.")
WE young people in the shade
Sat one sultry day; Cupid came, and "Dies the Fox"
With us sought to play.
Each one of my friends then sat
By his mistress dear; Cupid, blowing out the torch,
Said: "The taper's here!"
Then we quickly sent around
The expiring brand; Each one put it hastily
ln his neighbour's hand.
Dorilis then gave it me,
With a scoffing jest; Sudden into flame it broke,
By my fingers press'd.
And it singed my eyes and face,
Set my breast on fire; Then above my head the blaze
Mounted ever higher.
Vain I sought to put it out;
Ever burned the flame; Stead of dying, soon the Fox
Livelier still became.
1770. -----