Classic Poem

To send brave Suckling's muse so bright,
Travelling for a friend's delight,
Is yours by right.
You who can play and sing,
Upon so fair a string.

To me comes like from like: shall I
In Suckling's measure fondly try
To make reply?
Dispatching in such strain,
Like to like back again?

That were an idle task for me!
The Muses grant their high degree,
And dignity,
Only to such of worth,
In music and in mirth.

So, Muse of Suckling! to my friend,
Whose too art thou: to him commend
Me, to the end.
I, from without the ranks
Give him all hail and thanks.