An Assorted Collection of Eighteenth-Century Poetry
The EXCEPTION.
18th Century Various EnglishThe EXCEPTION.
STANHOPE has gain'd one branch of fame, To which, I'll prove, he has no claim. Say they — "His favours he extends, "Without regard to wealth, or friends: "Of such disinterested spirit, "Nothing prevails, with him, but merit; "Nay, he'll dispense with merit too, "When modest want can reach his view. "
Mere prejudice! 'tis plain to me, No man takes sweeter bribes than he. To clear this point from any doubt, A parallel shall help me out.
The noble FULVIA spurns at gain: Freely she heals her lover's pain: But, surely, you'll allow me this, That when she grants, she shares the bliss.
So STANHOPE, in each gen'rous action, Reaps more than half the satisfaction.