V.

[THE RIVAL BELLS.]

A tuneful challenge rings from either side

Of Thames' fair banks. Thy twice six Bells, St. Bride,

Peal swift and shrill; to which more slow reply

The deep-toned eight of Mary Overy.

Such harmony from the contention flows,

That the divided ear no preference knows:

Betwixt them both disparting Music's State,

While one exceeds in number, one in weight.