To Sir William Drummond

Drummond, your praises have been ever dear,
But most when pour'd into that willing ear
Which, turn'd away from flattery's voice, would bend
To catch the slightest word that fell from friend.
She tells me, time and studious hours have bow'd
That gracile form which shunn'd the ignoble crowd ;
And few even of the learned you admit
To share your wisdom and enjoy your wit :
And you expect and watch without dismay,
As virtuous courage bids, life's closing day :
Long may it linger yet, serenely bright,
And our last star stil guide us thro' the night.