XXVII + 

But I the products of my Muse, + 

Consisting of harmonious lays, + 

To my old nurse alone peruse, + 

Companion of my childhood’s days. + 

Or, after dinner’s dull repast, + 

I by the button-hole seize fast + 

My neighbour, who by chance drew near, + 

And breathe a drama in his ear. + 

Or else (I deal not here in jokes), + 

Exhausted by my woes and rhymes, + 

I sail upon my lake at times + 

And terrify a swarm of ducks, + 

Who, heard the music of my lay, + 

Take to their wings and fly away. + 