VERSES Wrote in a blank book which once belonged to Mr. Shenstone the poet, and was given by the Lord Bishop…

Come little book, the giver's hand, Shall add such worth to mine, That I will hold thee highly priz'd, And joy to call the mine.

Come little book; nor in my care, An humbler lot refuse, Tho' Worcester own'd thee once, tho' once Design'd for Shenstone's muse.

Had Shenstone in thy spotless page In glowing numbers plac'd, All that is pleasing great, and, good, With ev'ry virtue grac'd:

Fill'd thee with gentleness and love, With piety and truth; The wisdom of experienc'd years, The brilliant powers of youth;

With all the condescending ease Of manners most refin'd, Then hadst thou been an emblem fit, Of Worcester's generous mind.

Come little book; and let me boast No small, no common fame, That in thy once so honour'd page, I write my humble name.