Apology To Delia

This evening, Delia, you and I, Have managed most delightfully, For with a frown we parted; Having contrived some trifle that We both may be much troubled at, And sadly disconcerted. Yet well as each performed their part, We might perceive it was but art; And that we both intended To sacrifice a little ease; For all such petty flaws as these Are made but to be mended. You knew, dissembler! all the while, How sweet it was to reconcile After this heavy pelt; That we should gain by this allay When next we met, and laugh away The care we never felt. Happy! when we but seek to endure A little pain, then find a cure By double joy requited; For friendship, like a severed bone, Improves and joins a stronger tone When amply reunited.