1 Lo! as a careful huswife runs to catch
2 One of her feathered creatures broke away,
3 Sets down her babe and makes all swift dispatch
4 In pursuit of the thing she would have stay,
5 Whilst her neglected child holds her in chase,
6 Cries to catch her whose busy care is bent
7 To follow that which flies before her face,
8 Not prizing her poor infant's discontent;
9 So run'st thou after that which flies from thee,
10 Whilst I, thy babe, chase thee afar behind;
11 But if thou catch thy hope, turn back to me,
12 And play the mother's part, kiss me, be kind:
13 So will I pray that thou mayst have thy Will,
14 If thou turn back, and my loud crying still.
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