.Nw.ODU3

Verses [illegible] by a Gent. to his Lady will a present of a Knife A Knife dear Girl cuts Love they say;-- [M]ere Modish love perhaps it may: [F]or any tool of any kind, [I]n sep'rate what was never joined. [T]he Knife that cuts our love in two, [W]ill have much tougher work to do; [?]est cut such softness, worth & Spirit [do]wn to the vulgar size of merit; (__) level yours with modern taste, (_st) cut a world of sense to waste; (_) from your single Beauty's store, [illegible] wt would dizen out a score. (__) self same blade from me must sever. [?]sation), Judgement, Sight, for ever; (__) mem'ry of endearments past, (__) hope of Comforts long to last, (_) that makes fourteen years with you, Summer--and a short one too: (All?) that affection feels and fears, (_en) hours with you seem like years-- (_ll) that be done (and I'd as soon believe this Knife will chip the moon) (Accept?) my present undeterred (_) leave their proverbs to the herd. (_) in a kiss -- delicious treat! -- (__) lips acknowledge the receipt, (__) fond of such substantial fare, [and] proud to play the glutton there; (__) thought of cutting will disdain, (__)only -- cut and come again