John Dryden

As when the dove returning bore the mark
Of earth restored to the long labouring ark;
The read more

As when the dove returning bore the mark
Of earth restored to the long labouring ark;
The relics of mankind, secure at rest,
Open every window to receive the guest,
And the fair bearer of the message bless'd.

Him of the western dome, whose weighty sense
Flows in fit words and heavenly eloquence.

Him of the western dome, whose weighty sense
Flows in fit words and heavenly eloquence.

At home the hateful names of parties cease,
And factious souls are wearied into peace.

At home the hateful names of parties cease,
And factious souls are wearied into peace.

There's a proud modesty in merit; averse from asking, and resolved to pay ten times the gifts it asks.

There's a proud modesty in merit; averse from asking, and resolved to pay ten times the gifts it asks.

And after hearing what our Church can say,
If still our reason runs another way,
That private read more

And after hearing what our Church can say,
If still our reason runs another way,
That private reason 'tis more just to curb,
Than by disputes the public peace disturb;
For points obscure are of small use to learn,
But common quiet is mankind's concern.