That sting has none
Introduction by Hester Thrale
Here is another Epigram of mine on a Sort of publick Occasion if Epigram it may be called — that Sting has none — it was written on the execution of Robert Perreau 1776. & thr fruitless Sollicitations of his Wife and Friends.
Written by Hester Lynch Thrale. January 1776No strumpet to kneel, and no Scotchman to plead,
What wonder Perreau had small chance to succeed,
Bright Butterfield’s Beauty ensur’d her Applause,
And Caroline’s Artifice laughs at the Laws;
Foul Murder found Refuge in Kennedy’s arms,
And trembling confess’d their all-conquering Charms;
But Modesty, Merit, and Marriage alone!
What hope of stuff making way to a Throne.
Published in Thraliana entry dated Aug to Sept 1777 Hester Thrale's spelling, grammar and capitalisation, some of which may not conform to today's standards, are reproduced faithfully throughout.
