Virtue herself no other worth displays
Than cank'red censure leaves behind, as rays.
But mental cabonets are they that yield
No forfeiture to batt'ring critics' shield.
If thoughts might character deserts, I dare
Challenge my pencil for the largest share.
But when the vultures of our age must gnaw,
10I'll cease for modesty, and say, 'tis law.
It's safer far to fail of debt than t' be
Soaring in terms that badge of flattery.