University of Virginia Library

If, then, ingenuous pupil, thou hast read
These rules and models, search into the bent
Of thine own native talents. Here, perchance,
Lies a peculiar bias, to create
An independent manner of thine own;
Or else in friendly unison agree
With some congenial mind, whose features fair
Take for thy just exemplar. Thus, distinct
With every trait original that shews
True genius on a perfect model form'd;
Thy elegant oration shall address
The imaginative faculty; and touch
With great effect the quick percipient taste.