Classic Poem

To the County of Kent upon its condition at present

To the Counry of Kent upon its condition at present — June-1-1644

Unconquered Coast: whilst all thy neighbours be
Nor Plunder, Billet, nor Freequarter free
How above such is thy Condition blest
That Labourst not, when Those can take noe rest
But by a Providentiall Care put on
Cherishest warr abroad which is Welldon
For soe thy Peace at home more fixed lies
Foundationd on thy trends, (not Enemies
As Soldads allwayes seem) and what Exise
Thy Purse draines, tis thy neighbours Compremise
Not Lett to them who allwayes hungry press
To be th'r own Carvers of thy Substances
Heer in Thy Care excells and though't remaine
Some judg it hard the bye should shrink the maine
Yet be assurd the main and all relie
Soe much on this securing Polecy
That should but privat discontent ore flowe
The bankes of reason, it might overthrowe
Thee and thy force, yet sithence for ground thou'st layd
To Conquer first thyself, be not atrayd
For't speaks more power, nor can Plot rise T'unbridg
Thy Rivers Passes, People o'th Priviledg
Of free born subjects armd with this intent
To stand for God, the King, and's Parlement
As the renowned Yeomandry of Kent.English