THE TWO FRIENDS

AXIOCHUS, a handsome youth of old,

And Alcibiades, (both gay and bold,)

So well agreed, they kept a beauteous belle,

With whom by turns they equally would dwell.

IT happened, one of them so nicely played,

The fav'rite lass produced a little maid,

Which both extolled, and each his own believed,

Though doubtless one or t'other was deceived.

Original

BUT when to riper years the bantling grew,

And sought her mother's foot-steps to pursue,

Each friend desired to be her chosen swain,

And neither would a parent's name retain.

SAID one, why brother, she's your very shade;

The features are the same-:-your looks pervade.

Oh no, the other cried, it cannot be

Her chin, mouth, nose, and eyes, with your's agree;

But that as 'twill, let me her favours win,

And for the pleasure I will risk the sin.