Classic Poem

The Author's Introductory APOLOGY, prefented to D AVID G ARRICK , Esq .

Grant your Pardon — 'tis my Muse,
Her Commands I can't refuse;
Months ago this slippant Jade,
(Still I must love the busy Maid)
Urg'd me with ambitious Speech,
Thus to soar above my Reach;
But of late by Day and Night,
More and more this Lady Spright
Spurs me on — Up-rouse my Bard,
For me if you profess Regard;
Pause no more, with Haste repair,
And court the worthy G ARRICK 's Care:
Under his protecting Wings,
(Of more Avail than Pow'r of Kings)
I'll give you Flight; his fost'ring Name,
For he enjoys the brightest Fame,
Shall hand you up to public Eyes;
Then trust to me — obey, be wise.
If after this you take Offence,
Which I would give on no Pretence;
Permit your Scribbler to go free,
'Tis Lady Spright offends — not ME.