Sonnet to the Earl of Hardwicke

Hardwicke! whose bright applause a poet crown'd Unknown to thee and to the Muse's quire, Permit his hand with joyous pride to sound A note of gratitude on freedom's lyre! And fear not flattery's song from one plac'd higher Than she has power to raise her menial crew; From one who, proud of independent fire, Scorns the base Noble, but reveres the true. The liberal spirit feels thy generous praise Fall from pure honour's sphere, like genial dew; Blest if its vital influence shall raise A future flower more worthy of thy view! Blest if in these re-polish'd lays thou find Some light reflected from thy letter'd mind!