[The Task.]

(Jan. 20) [1813?]

The Task is dull; but I was taught Myself, and ’tis a debt I owe To those who [seek the] truths I sought, The Knowledge I have gain’d to shew.

In many a dull and drowsy lad I strove to wake the slumbering Soul, And raise what faculties he had By patient Care and mild Controul.

And, when there came a sprightly boy, As ardent was the Task; for still He relished not the grave Employ, Nor to his duty bent his Will.

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