Classic Poem

A TRUE philosopher! well taught to scan
The works of nature, those of art to prize;
The latter cordially to patronize,
But the first, their Author , and their plan,
Giving that homage of far ampler span
Awarded by the good, the great, the wise:
A hearty lover of old household ties;
And, to crown all, a Christian gentleman!
Such wert thou, E VELYN , in a busy age
Of restless change, to dissipation prone;
And, at thy death, upon thy coffin-stone,
Hast left this record, worthy many a page,
That " all not honest, " on this mortal stage,
" Is vain! and nothing wise save piety alone! "