Classic Poem

Address'd to a certain young Lady whom the Author had offended.

I.

Conscious that I've much offended,
Faults confess'd are half amended;
Thus repentant let the Muse,
Former youthful Flights excuse.

II.

Gross Presumption, I confess,
For it can be deem'd no less,
When a Wren's aspiring Flight
Strives to gain the Eagle's Hight.

III.

Thus like P HÆTON of old,
(Story that is Thread-bare told)
I've presum'd to mount above,
Prompted by ambitious Love.

IV.

Grant your Pardon, never more
Will I disrespectful soar;
Time, that faithful, best Adviser,
Has, I hope, inform'd me wiser.