MATERNAL ADVICE.

DateApril 21, 1795

Publisher Haines & Son

MediumBlack and white mezzotint engraving with period hand color

DimensionsOH: 13 7/8" x OW: 10 1/8"; Plate H: 13 5/8" x W: 9 7/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1962-287

DescriptionThe lower margin reads: "MATERNAL ADVICE./ To Reason my Children assert your pretence,/ Nor hearken to Language beneath common sense;/ When Angels men call you, and homage would pay,/ If you credit the tale, you're as faulty as they./ Ten Thousand gay scenes are presented to view,/ Ten Thousand oaths sworn, but not one of them true;/ Such Passion, O heed not unless to deride,/ Lest victims ye fall to an ill grounded pride./ E'en Hymens fond slave is oft heard to complain,/ Joys founded in love are but airy and vain;/ While friendships recorded in truths sacred page,/ The rapture of youth, and the solace of age./ Prefer ye the dictates of virtue to sound,/ True bliss never yet without goodness was found!/ Leave folly and fashion, midguiders of youth,/ And stick to their opposites, wisdom and truth./ Published 21.st April 1795, by Haines & Son N.o 19 Rolls Buildings Fetter Lane Fleet Street."