The Friend. 1669

REader, what pale cold Guest
Under this speaking Stone does rest,
Is by these faithful lines exprest.

One of an ancient Name,
Who left as full and clear a fame
To's Children, as fro's Grandsires came.

Nature to him did lend
A Heart, that knew no other end,
But how to love, and serve his Friend.

His humour rightly plac'd,
And so by conversation grac'd;
It, manna like, did please each Tast.

This is no flatt'ring dress;
For Envy's self must needs confess
Truth and a Friend could say no less.