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1716–1771

THE EPITAPH.

Thomas Gray

Here rests his head upon the lap of Earth A youth, to Fortune and to Fame unknown; Fair Science frown'd not on his humble birth, And Melancholy mark'd him for her own.

Large was his bounty, and his soul sincere, Heaven did a recompense as largely send; He gave to Misery all he had, a tear; He gain'd from Heaven (‘ twas all he wish'd ) a friend.

No farther seek his merits to disclose, Or draw his frailties from their dread abode, ( There they alike in trembling hope repose ) The bosom of his Father and his God.

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THE EPITAPH. · Thomas Gray · Poetry Cove