Epigram upon Mrs. Collier's Dedicating the Death of Abel to the Queen

When Cain and Abel their first offerings made, Abel's alone th' Almighty pleas'd survey'd; Sallen and vex'd, unpitying Cain withdrew, And soon in private virtuous Abel slew. But Britain's queen, when Collier homage paid, And at the throne her book of Abel laid, Fearing lest envy might attend regard, Receiv'd the offering, but denied reward! She fear'd lest Abel might again be slain, And every Critic prove another Cain.