Here rests his head upon the lap of Earth, A Youth to Fortune and to Fame unknown. Fair Science frown'd not on his humble birth, And Melancholy mark'd him for her own. Large was his bounty, and his soul sincere, Heav'n did a recompense as largely send: He gave to Mis'ry all he had, a tear, He gain'd from Heav'n ('twas all he wish'd) a friend. No farther seek his merits to disclose, Or draw his frailties from their dread abode, (There they alike in trembling hope repose) The bosom of his Father and his God. (1751) The pelting brunt of the tempestuous night, With half-shut eyes, and puckered cheeks and teeth Presented bare against the storm, plods on. One hand secures his hat, save when with both He brandishes his pliant length of whip, 70 That breathes the spleen, and searches every bone To soothe their honest pride, that scorns to beg, 120 Nor comfort else, but in their mutual love. I praise you much, ye weak and patient pair, For ye are worthy; choosing rather far A dry but independent crust, hard earned, |