The Poetry Corner

To His Peculiar Friend, Sir Edward Fish, Knight Baronet.

By Robert Herrick

Since, for thy full deserts, with all the rest Of these chaste spirits that are here possest Of life eternal, time has made thee one For growth in this my rich plantation, Live here; but know 'twas virtue, and not chance, That gave thee this so high inheritance. Keep it for ever, grounded with the good, Who hold fast here an endless livelihood.