Classic Poem

When Stella glides with heedless Glance,
 Obedient to the sprightly Sound;
Through all the Mazes of the Dance,
 With Music-moving Feet around:

Such Harmony is in her Air,
 Such Grace each Attitude supplies;
In Transport lost no Sound we hear,
 A sweeter Concord charms our Eyes.

Thus lovely Venus in her Sphere
 Thro' winding Measures moves on high;
With golden Beams she glads the Year,
 And gaily gilds the Morning Sky.

While raptur'd Mortals on her gaze,
 Regardless by what Law she moves;
Still ravish'd by her splendid Rays,
 The joyful World admires and loves.

Triumphant thus no Pang she feels,
 No Pity melts her vacant Mind:
So youthful Victors at their Wheels
 Unheeded Captives drag behind.

Ah Stella! know thy Power betimes,
 Guiltless in thee, yet fatal found;
Thy Eyes indeed commit no Crimes,
 Yet ev'ry Glance conveys a Wound.

With Caution use thy dang'rous Charms,
 Which now at Random thus annoy;
And gently wield those glitt'ring Arms
 By Beauty brighten'd to destroy.

At least behold thy Victims fall,
 Their Fate should some Compassion move;
Thy Pity may extend to all,
 Tho' one alone enjoys thy Love.