University of Virginia Library

To his admired friend Mr. Robert Baron upon his Booke.

Great Madam Nature's womb as yet I see
Is not growne feeble, it hath brought forth thee,
Our ages ornament, t'ath brought forth thee,
VVho art a Nestor in thy infancie.
Thy thoughts (though green) so ripe they are, and rare
VVith hoarie wisedome they may well compare.
In thy elaborate Poem, fancies seeme
In Learnings choyce, and cheife spoyles triumphing.
Wits deepest mines thy eagles eye can spy.
Thy cleerer soule sound their profundity.
This thriving bayes, this verdant lawrell sprout,
O're tops old slanders, at's peeping out,
It shall even Scythian frosts survive, and last
In spite of spattering envy, and the blast
Of Momus keener breath, it shall be seene,
Like youthfull Daphnie alwayes clad in greene.
Cant pale fac't study cowe thy haughty sprite?
Renowned Sir, wilt thou proceed in spite
Of knotty arts? goe on still and be blest,
Tough ruggid sciences thou shalt digest,
And swallow time himselfe, who ne're shall have
Power to reare for thy great name, a grave.