Classic Poem

On Runnymeadm as I Passed over It, April 22, 1810

H ERE England's ancient Barons, firm and bold,
A wholesome lesson to a Sovereign told;
That Rights are free , and spurn the Tyrant's chain,
That upon England's Throne — the People reign .
Peers of another stamp, since they retir'd,
For new achievements have the scene acquir'd;
In the keen science of the Turf adept,
At Races only have the Charter kept;
With dirty Knaves unite the loving hand,
And feel their Coat of Arms a rope of sand;
They are no Heroes of a Martial air;
But are as knowing as the boots they wear.English