In Imitation Of Dr. Swift : The Happy Life Of A Country Parson

Parson, these things in thy possessing Are better than the Bishop's blessing. A Wife that makes conserves; a Steed That carries double when there's need: October store, and best Virginia, Tithe-Pig, and mortuary Guinea: Gazettes sent gratis down, and frank'd, For which thy Patron's weekly thank'd; A large Concordance, bound long since: Sermons to Charles the First, when Prince; A Chronicle of ancient standing; A Chrysostom to smooth thy band in. The Polygot ' three parts, ' my text, Howbeit, ' likewise ' now to my next. Lo here the Septuagint, ' and Paul, To sum the whole, ' the close of all. He that has these, may pass his life, Drink with the 'Squire, and kiss his wife; On Sundays preach, and eat his fill; And fast on Fridays ' if he will; Toast Church and Queen, explain the News, Talk with Church-Wardens about Pews, Pray heartily for some new Gift, And shake his head at Doctor S't.