Classic Poem

Two youths for my love are contending in vain;
For, do all they can,
Their suff'rings I rally, and laugh at their pain:
Which, which is the man
That deserves me the most? Let me ask of my heart: —
Is it Robin, who smirks, and who dresses so smart?
Or Tom, honest Tom, who makes plainness his plan?
Which, which is the man?

II.

Indeed to be prudent, and do what I ought,
I do what I can:
Yet surely papa and mamma are in fault;
To a different man
They, each, have advised me to yield up my heart,
Mamma praises Robin, who dresses so smart;
Papa honest Tom, who makes plainness his plan:
Which, which is the man?

III

Be kind then, my heart, and but point out the youth.
I'll do what I can
His love to return, and return it with truth;
Which, which is the man?
Be kind to my wishes, and point out, my heart,
Is it Robin, who smirks, and who dresses so smart?
Or Tom, honest Tom, who makes plainness his plan?
Which, which is the man?