University of Virginia Library

On Poetizing Momus.

Momus when any Poem he doth read,
Though it deserve just praise, and doth exceed
In wit and judgement; yet he sighs it o'r,
Saying hee has read as good as it before:
Wil ne'r commend it; and if any by
Ask how he likes it? then he makes reply,
'Tis good, indifferent; there's something in't,
Or it may pass, but 'tis scarce worth the print.
Thus though his wisdome can no fault espie,
Yet he denies it praise, in policie:
'Troth Momus if thou had'st, no better friend,
None would thy verses read, much lesse commend.