Poem by William Harrison Ainsworth

Pledge of the Highwayman

Come, fill up, a bumper to Eve’s fairest daughters,
	Who have lavished their smiles on the brave and the free; 
Toast the sweethearts of DUDLEY, HIND, WILMOT, and WATERS,
	Whate’er their attraction, whate’er their degree.
Pledge! pledge in a bumper, each kind-hearted maiden,
	Whose bright eyes were dimmed at the highwayman’s fall; 
Who stood by the gallows with sorrow o’erladen,
	Bemoaning the fate of the gallant DU-VAL!

Here’s to each lovely lass chance of war bringeth near one,
	Whom, with manner impassioned, we tenderly stop; 
And to whom, like the lover addressing his dear one,
	In terms of entreaty the question we pop.
How oft, in such case, rosy lips have proved sweeter
	Than the rosiest book, bright eyes saved a bright ring; 
While that one other kiss has brought off a repeater,
	And a bead as a favor – the favourite string.

With our hearts ready rifled, each pocket we rifle,
	With the pure flame of chivalry stirring our breasts; 
Life’s risk for our mistress’s praise is a trifle;
	And each purse as a trophy our homage attests.
Then toss off your glasses to all girls of spirit,
	Ne’er with names, or with number, your memories vex; 
Our toast, boys, embraces each woman of merit,
	And, for fear of omission, we’ll drink the WHOLE SEX.

1. One Foot in the Stirrup, or Turpin's First Fling
2. The Game of High Toby
3. The Modern Greek
4. The Legend of Valdez
5. The Twice-Used Ring

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