True ease in writing comes from art, not chance, As those move easiest who have learned to dance.

Men, some to business, some to pleasure take; But every woman is at heart a rake.

Let such teach others who themselves excel, And censure freely who have written well.

That each from other differs, first confess; next that he varies from himself no less.

Praise from a friend, or censure from a foe, Are lost on hearers that our merits know.

Who combats bravely is not therefore brave, He dreads a death-bed like the meanest slave: Who reasons wisely is not therefore wise,- His pride in reasoning, not in acting lies.

But thinks, admitted to that equal sky, His faithful dog shall bear him company.