Classic Poem

While , from thy bold design, my honor'd Muse,
Lovelier appears, in borrow'd lustre gay,
Can she, to thy consummate skill, refuse
Her tributary branch of fading bay?
Yes, thou hast drest her in as rich array,
As H E could give, who, whilom, bore thy name,
And nobly emulous of R UBENS ' fame,
Touch'd with immortal tints each bright essay.
Pardon her tuneful thanks, defer'd so long,
The timid homage of sincere delight;
Tho' rude, and artless, the spontaneous song,
Unmeet such deathless favour to requite,
Her Sister-Muse, who guides thy pencil right,
Haply, may mark her from the meaner throng.