IN THE ALBUM OF A FRENCH TEACHER (? 1829)

Implored for verse, I send you what I can; But you are so exact a Frenchwoman, As I am told, Jemima, that I fear To wound with English your Parisian ear, And think I do your choice collection wrong With lines not written in the Frenchman's tongue. Had I a knowledge equal to my will, With airy Chansons I your leaves would fill; With Fabliaux, that should emulate the vein Of sprightly Cresset, or of La Fontaine; Or Scenes Comiques, that should approach the air Of your own favourite—renowned Moliere. But at my suit the Muse of France looks sour, And strikes me dumb! Yet, what is in my power To testify respect for you, I pray, Take in plain English—our rough Enfield way.