Edward, thy Ode’s too long by half

Edward, thy Ode’s too long by half, Stephen’s Reply might spare a quarter: Now, in my judgment, Stephen’s song Is as much better, as ’tis shorter.

Edward declares, though Milton’s lines Rise to an unexampled height, That, in heroics, Stephen shines Like Milton, and almost as bright.

Stephen for quittance makes reply, That nothing in the world could hinder (Except his native modesty) Edward from taking place of Pindar.

Stephen and Edward all this while Are lying to each other’s face; Edward can do ’t in bolder style, But Stephen with a better grace.