The Task

The Task is dull; but I was taught
Myself, and 'tis a debt I owe
To those who seek the truths I sought,
The Knowledge I have gain'd to shew.

In many a dull and drowsy lad
I strove to wake the slumbering Soul,
And raise what faculties he had
By patient Care and mild Controul.

And, when there came a sprightly boy,
As ardent was the Task; for still
He relished not the grave Employ,
Nor to his duty bent his Will.