Classic Poem

Address'd to T. M ATHEWS , Esq. of Landaff, who had promis'd the Author an introductory Letter to Mr . F OOTE .

Fishing Subject for the Day,
As in sleepless Bed I lay,
" Jog L EANDER 's friendly Mind,
Touching Promise left behind. "
Thus my Muse — I must obey,
For her Commands brook no Delay.
Master F OOTE , that Prince of Wags,
Posting with his own Dun Nags,
Bath has left some Time ago,
(And indeed you hinted so)
Shortly I design for Town,
But shall soon again come down;
Send me then your promis'd Letter,
To gain the Ear of this Face-Setter ;
He will help my Canvas more,
Than Dukes or Lords , a very Score —
Already you have shown Regard,
And much avail'd your grateful Bard;
Add this Favour, I'm contented,
Trust me it shan't be repented.
An Accident I've got to tell,
Which happen'd late at Bristol Well;
Lady F — — has lost a Daughter,
Who was there to drink the Water;
I arriv'd that very Night,
Just as Breath was taking Flight;
By Peep of Day , " What, ho! my Quill, "
For my Muse wou'd not lay still;
Strait in Elegiac Strain,
I address'd the Mother's Pain;
'Twas well receiv'd — there's good Report,
For she has Weight at Royal Court .

Farewell — present my best Respects,
And candidly excuse Defects.