On Going to a Dance, by Keith Logan

fan fiction

On Going to a Dance

Seventeen years old was she
Of world's ways knew she naught
Thought herself most fortunate
By Isabella to be taught

Catherine is all innocence
Modest in her heart
Her mentor displays confidence
Has wisdom to impart

Settled in her mind was this
Until by some strange chance
Disturbing observations came
On going to a dance

Miss Tilney had a figure good
Likewise a pretty face
Very agreeable countenance
And air that was all grace

Had nothing of pretension
Was not stylish to effect
Serenity of good breeding
Was all one might detect

Not timidest of creatures, nor
Affectedly open she
Displaying only sense and taste
As all the world might see

Was quite capable of being young
Attractive, and at a ball
Without wanting to fix the attention
Of young men one and all

And without exaggerated feelings
Of vexation or delight
On every trifling occurrence
That happened in her sight

Thus Catherine met with elegance
Without playing of a part
And learned that greater wisdom
Need not change an honest heart