The Poetry Corner

Upon Young Mr Rogers Of Gloucestershire.

By John Dryden

Of gentle blood, his parents' only treasure, Their lasting sorrow, and their vanish'd pleasure, Adorn'd with features, virtues, wit, and grace, A large provision for so short a race; More moderate gifts might have prolong'd his date, Too early fitted for a better state; But, knowing heaven his home, to shun delay, He leap'd o'er age, and took the shortest way.