To a Ruler, your Equal! the first Monarch’s Friend!

Whose Empire at least is as large as your own,

As crowded his Army, as splendid his Throne;

His Spirit as great, and, whatever his Cause,

A greater Obedience is paid to his Laws! 40

Attend and receive your Instructions from me;

Though a Counsellor famous, I covet no fee;

Prefer me before all your ignoble Tribe—

What Mortal in Black ever acts without Bribe?

Let Empire unbounded your Bosoms possess;