But we, brave Britons, foreign laws defpis'd, 715
And kept unconquer'd, and unciviliz'd;
Fierce for the liberties of wit, and bold,
We still defy'd the Romans, as of old.
Yet fome there were, among the founder few
Of those who lefs prefum'd, and better knew, 720
Who durft affert the juster ancient cause,
And here reftor'd Wit's fundamental laws.
Such was the Muse, whose rules and practice tell,)
"Nature's chief Mafter-piece is writing well."
Such was Rofcommon, not more learn'd than good,
With manners gen'rous as his noble blood;
726
To him the wit of Greece and Rome was known,
And ev'ry author's merit, but his own.
C
Such late was Walsh -- the Mufe's judge and friend,
Who juftly knew to blame or to commend; 730
To failings mild, but zealous for defert ;
The clearest head, and the fincerest heart.
This humble praise, lamented Shade! receive,
This praise at least a grateful Muse may give :
The Mufe, whofe early voice you taught to fing, 735
Prefcrib'd her heights, and prun'd her tender wing,
(Her guide now loft) no more attempts to rife,
But in low numbers short excurfions tries: