 | Poetical remains (1872) |  |
Sonnet,
Addressed to a friend, A. B., and candidate for a fellowship in one of the Universities.
That hood, so late your wish, in monkish beautyFlows from your shoulders now long, black, and furry.
Were you but Fellow then!—yet why this hurry?
Before you stand, read this, and learn your duty.
Learn, if untufted wit and worth salute you,
To frown impatience while they cap and sir ye:
With titled Vice and Folly favour curry,
Nor blush if ill your awkward flattery suit ye:
Sin you: but tolerate no younger sinner:
Teach them to rise, be sober and grow clever;
Snore you till noon, and every night be mellow:
Pray seldom; then be last; be first at dinner:
Walk, ride, and dress; read sometimes, study never.
This will you swear? Enough: admit him Fellow.
| Poetical remains (1872) | |