The Bridegroom

1

The bridegroom was all2 dressed by Honors fine,
And was attended by the Muses nine.
Virtue strewed flow’rs3 of dispositions sweet,
In honest ways to walk on gentle feet.
A crown of loyalty was on4 his head;                              5
Both5 Fortitude, and Justice did him lead.6
Over his7 crown a laurel Fame did8 set,
Which Fortune often strived away to get.
And many bells of several censures rung,
And all the streets were9 with inquiry hung,                10
And10 in a chariot of good deeds did ride,
And many thankful hearts run by his side.

  1. The Bridegroom] The Bridegroom’s Dress. 1664; The Bridegroom’s Dress. 1668
  2. was all] all was 1653
  3. strewed flow’rs] Flowers strew’d 1653
  4. loyalty was on] Civility upon 1653
  5. Both] And both by 1653
  6. did him lead.] lead. 1653
  7. his] this 1664, 1668
  8. did] was 1664, 1668
  9. were] was 1653
  10. And] He 1664, 1668