In talk of petty schemes, or great design,—
To him, with ease and freedom uncontrouled,
His jests and thoughts, or good or ill, were told:
Whate’er concerned his fortunes was disclosed,
And safely in that faithful breast reposed.
This chosen friend possessed a stedfast mind,
Where no base purpose could its harbour find;
Mild, courteous, learned, with knowledge blest, and sense;
A soul serene, contentment, eloquence;
Fluent in words or sparing, well he knew