Altered from an old English song

written in 1795

How cruel are the Parents Who riches only prize, And to the wealthy booby Poor Woman sacrifice: Meanwhile the hapless Daughter Has but a choice of strife; To shun a tyrant Father's hate, Become a wretched Wife. The ravening hawk pursuing, The trembling dove thus flies, To shun impelling ruin Awhile her pinions tries; Till of escape despairing, No shelter or retreat, She trusts the ruthless Falconer And drops beneath his feet.