Classic Poem

Dear to the Wise and Good by All approv'd,
The Joy of Virtue, and Heaven's well-belov'd!
His Life inspir'd with every better Art,
A learned Head, clear Soul, and honest Heart.
Each Science chose his Breast her favourite Seat,
Each Language, but the Language of Deceit.
Severe his Virtues, yet his Manners kind,
A manly Form, and a Seraphic Mind.
So long he walk'd in Virtues even road,
In him at length, 'twas natural to do good.
Like Eden , his old Age (a Sabbath Rest!)
Flow's without Noise, yet all around him blest!
His Patron, J ESUS ! with no Titles grac'd,
But that best Title, a good Parish Priest .
Peace with his Ashes dwell. And, Mortals, know,
The Saint's above; the Dust alone below.
The Wise and Good shall pay their Tribute here,
The modest Tribute of one Thought and Tear,
Then pensive Sigh, and say, " To me be given
By living thus on Earth, to reign in Heaven. "