Classic Poem

RECTOR OF STRADISHALL, IN SUFFOLK . 1788.

Thus safely low, my friend, thou canst not fall:
Here reigns a deep tranquillity o'er all;
No noise, no care, no vanity, no strife;
Men, woods, and fields, all breathe untroubled life
Then keep each passion down, however dear;
Trust me, the tender are the most severe.
Guard, while 'tis thine, thy philosophic ease,
And ask no joy but that of virtuous peace:
That bids defiance to the storms of fate;
High bliss is only for a higher state.