Songs Set To Music: 8. Set By Mr. Smith

Still, Dorinda, I adore; Think I mean not to deceive you, For I loved you much before, And, alas! now love you more Though I force myself to leave you. Staying I my vows shall fail, Virtue yields as love grows stronger; Fierce desires will prevail, You are fair and I am frail, And dare trust myself no longer. You, my love, too nicely coy, Lest I should have gain'd the treasure, Made my vows and oaths destroy The pleasing hopes I did enjoy Of all my future peace and pleasure. To my vows I have been true, And in silence hid my anguish, But I cannot promise too What my love may make me do While with her for whom I languish. For in thee strange magic lies, And my heart is too, too tender; Nothing's proof against those eyes, Best resolves and strictest ties To their force must soon surrender. But, Dorinda, you're severe, I much doting thus to sever: Since from all I hold most dear, That you may no longer fear, I divorce myself for ever.