The Certain Hour (Dizain des Poëtes)

by James Branch Cabell

  Look on this form,--where humor, quaint and sly, Dimples the cheek, and points the beaming eye; Where gay invention seems to boast its wiles In amorous hint, and half-triumphant smiles.

  Look on her well--does she seem form'd to teach? Should you expect to hear this lady preach? Is gray experience suited to her youth? Do solemn sentiments become that mouth?

  Bid her be grave, those lips should rebel prove To every theme that slanders mirth or love.

  RICHARD BRINSLEY SHERIDAN.--_Second Prologue to The Rivals_.