Epigram 10. To Mr. George Porter

Whether in one that I affect above
Others, I honour should or friendship love,
Is now become my doubt; but soon I shall
(By contemplating you) o'recome it all.
What is anothers Honour unto me,
If our affections want a Sympathie?
And how can any friendship have a stamp
Of worth upon it, that doth Honour want?
Honour and friendship should Concomitants be,
And (in as near relation) should agree,
As Light doth with the Sun; for Honour doth
Keep friendship from all flawes; they both seem both.
The grand example of your excellent parts
(The wonder, and delight of noble hearts)
Honour and friendship (to their splendid height)
Do in all great and generous souls unite.
Malice it self no stain can tax you with,
But that unto me you your friendship give:
And (Sir) I am so proud on't, that I must
Unto your mighty merit be unjust;
(In this let envy censure how it will)
Pray honour me with your fair friendship still.