IV. to the Queen, Going to Bed

Madam, once more, th' obsequious Muse, With zeal and just ambition fir'd, Her grateful homage here renews, In numbers by Yourself inspir'd: And late her willing duty shows, To guard you to your safe repose.

Within this silent humble cell, Secure the gifts of sleep receive; No factions here or discords dwell, To break that rest the Muses give. Here daily cares help to increase, Not interrupt, our mighty ease.

These walls, more happy now, possest Of the most fair and shining Court, Not in the Muses, but their Guest, Theirs and the Muses' chief support. So Delphos was the bless'd abode Of Phoebus' Priests and of the God.

May Heaven its sacred charge defend! May every Grace and every Muse, Round You with watchful care attend, And balms of gentle sleep infuse! Such as the virtuous only know; Kind as the blessings You bestow!