Classic Poem

Wrote in the Oak-Walk at Billingbear in Berkshire.

Sacra Jovi Quercus, Veneri gratissima — —

Thou ever verdant, venerable Shade,
Ye sacred Oaks , by Time thus charming made,
More blest than those, the Fav'rites once of Jove ,
Eternal Offspring of Dodona 's Grove.
Here flourish safe, nor Envy, nor complain,
Tho' your tall Brotherhood in George 's Reign
Assert the Empire of the frighted Main.
The Sea and all its Wealth to them resign,
For know a Treasure far more dear is thine;
Bend then your Branches round the Sea-born Fair,
And bending own that Venus is your Care.