The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift/Volume 18/On the Drapier

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UNDONE by fools at home, abroad by knaves,
The isle of saints became the land of slaves,
Trembling beneath her proud oppressor's hand;
But, when thy reason thunder'd through the land,
Then all the publick spirit breath'd in thee,
And all, except the sons of guilt, were free.
Blest isle, blest patriot, ever glorious strife!
You gave her freedom, as she gave you life!
Thus Cato fought, whom Brutus copied well,
And with those rights, for which you stand, he fell.


  1. See the translation of Carberiæ Rupes, in vol. VII, page 248. In the Select Poetical Works of Dr. Dunkin, published at Dublin in 1770, are four well-chosen compliments to the dean on his birthday, and a very humourous poetical advertisement for a copy of Virgil Travestie, which, at the dean's request, Dr. Dunkin had much corrected, and afterward lost. After offering a small reward to whoever will restore it, he adds,
    "Or if, when this book shall be offer'd to sale,
    Any printer will stop it, the bard will not fail
    To make over the issues and profits accruing
    From thence to the printer, for his care in so doing;
    Provided he first to the poet will send it,
    That where it is wrong, he may alter and mend it."
    Several instances of Dr. Swift's regard for this ingenious writer may be seen in this collection.