My Godmother’s Beard

So great the charms of Mrs. Mundy,

That men grew rude, a kiss to gain:

This so provok'd the dame that one day

To Pallas chaste she did complain:



Nor vainly she address'd her prayer,

Nor vainly to that power applied;

The goddess bade a length of hair

In deep recess her muzzle hide:



Still persevere! to love be callous!

For I have your petition heard!

To snatch a kiss were vain (cried Pallas)

Unless you first should shave your beard.