The date of the year

M. Bland

When a girl I was careless and gay

Freely joining pleasures career

'Twas the Spring time of life it was May

I ne'er thought of the Date of the Year

But to Vices allurement not prone,

Busy Love whisper'd soft in my ear,

There's no comfort in living alone

And pray look at the Date of the Year

My fond heart gave assent beating high,

And acknowledg'd the Youth that was dear;

Ready Hymen soon fasten'd the tie,

Ever blest be the date of that year:

Bred in harmony virtue and truth,

Happy faces around me appear;

And the grateful affection of youth,

Prove a balm to the date of that year.

Then ye fair ones when fashion and pride

When caprice and when fancy severe;

In your hearts Loves enjoyment can hide,

O beware of the date of the year:

While each pleasure of conjugal life,

The blessings of Hymen endear;

Alas to the old Maid and Wife,

How different the date of the year.