Contrasted Joys, author unknown - circa 1815
How great my pleasures at the play
(A lady once was heard to say)
Amusement surely all divine
Be such amusements always mine
First there is the joy I always know
Before the hour arrives to go
And when I'm there - but who can say
What are my raptures at the play
Besides the recollected joy
Next day affords me sweet employ
That may be true, (a friend replied)
But is there not one joy beside
You have not mentioned - tell me why
The joy of plays when called to die
Perhaps a thunderbolt from heav'n
Might then have less confession giv'n
The gay young lady felt the smart
Conviction seized her wounded Heart
No more she boast her former joys
Religion now her thoughts employs
False pleasure can no more amuse
Superior bliss she now pursues
"O happy change", she says and tells you why
"Religion's joy will last when call'd to die