A REQUEST TO THE GRACES

Portrait of Robert Herrick
Robert Herrick 1591–1674

Ponder my words, if so that any be Known guilty here of incivility; Let what is graceless, discomposed, and rude, With sweetness, smoothness, softness be endued: Teach it to blush, to curtsey, lisp, and show Demure, but yet full of temptation, too. Numbers ne'er tickle, or but lightly plea{e, Unless they have some wanton carriages:-- This if ye do, each piece will here be good And graceful made by your neat sisterhood.

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