To the Ladies

WIFE and servant are the same,But only differ in the name :For when that fatal knot is ty'd,Which nothing, nothing can divide :When she the word obey has said,And man by law supreme has made,Then all that's kind is laid aside,And nothing left but state and pride :Fierce as an eastern prince he grows,And all his innate rigour shows :Then but to look, to laugh, or speak,Will the nuptial contract break.Like mutes, she signs alone must make,And never any freedom take :But still be govern'd by a nod,And fear her husband as a God :Him still must serve, him still obey,And nothing act, and nothing say,But what her haughty lord thinks fit,Who with the power, has all the wit.Then shun, oh ! shun that wretched state,And all the fawning flatt'rers hate :Value yourselves, and men despise :You must be proud, if you'll be wise.