The Poetical Works of John Dryden, Vol II: To my friend Mr J. Northleigh

To my friend Mr J. Northleigh

Author of "The Parallel", on his "Triumph of the British Monarchy".

  So Joseph, yet a youth, expounded well
  The boding dream, and did the event foretell;
  Judged by the past, and drew the Parallel.
  Thus early Solomon the truth explored,
  The right awarded, and the babe restored.
  Thus Daniel, ere to prophecy he grew,
  The perjured Presbyters did first subdue,
  And freed Susanna from the canting crew.
  Well may our monarchy triumphant stand,
  While warlike James protects both sea and land;                     10
  And, under covert of his sevenfold shield,
  Thou send'st thy shafts to scour the distant field.
  By law thy powerful pen has set us free;
  Thou studiest that, and that may study thee.

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