The Noble'S Grave

(After Sion Cent, 1386-1420, priest of Kentchurch, in Hereford)

Premier Peer but yesterday, Lone within the tomb to-morrow; For his silken garments gay, Grave-clothes in a gravelled furrow.

No love-making, homage none; From his mines no golden mintage; No rich traffic in the sun; No more purple-purling vintage.

No more usherings out of Hall By obsequious attendant; No more part, however small, In the Pageant's pomp resplendent!

Just a perch of churchyard clay All the soil he now possesses; Heavily its burthen grey On his pulseless bosom presses.