That my refusal of so great an offer

May make no ill construction, 'tis not pride

(That common vice is far from my condition)

That makes you a denyal to receive

A favour I should sue for: nor the fashion

Which the Country follows, in which to be a servant

In those that groan beneath the heavy weight

Of poverty, is held an argument

Of a base abject mind, I wish my years

Were fit to do you service in a nature