Kinsman beloved, and as a son by me! <br />When I behold this fruit of thy regard, <br />The sculptured form of my old favourite bard, <br />I reverence feel for him, and love for thee. <br />Joy too and grief. Much joy that there should be <br />Wise men and learned who grudge not to reward <br />With some applause my bold attempt and hard, <br />With others scorn: critics by courtesy. <br />The grief is this, that sunk in Homer's mine, <br />I lose my precious years now soon to fail, <br />Handling his gold, which howsoe'er it shine, <br />Proves dross, when balanced in the Christian scale. <br />Be wiser thou; -- like our forefather Donne, <br />Seek heavenly wealth, and work for God alone.<br /><br />William Cowper<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/to-john-johnson-on-his-presenting-me-with-an-antique-bust-of-homer/
