Classic Poem

From tattered volumes old and sere
Some friends I know evolve delight.
The shabbiest oft most prized appear
By antiquarians erudite,
These think me a Philistine wight
For liking bindings of the best;
Yet to my taste I have a right:
I like to see my friends well drest.

I love the antique and the queer,
The curious, quaint, and recondite.
I own the spell of Elzevir,
The charm of pages Aldine hight;
But yet, though age and dirt invite,
Their beauty is not manifest.
Let modern art put them to flight.
I like to see my friends well drest.

Of Bedford, Tout, and Riviere
I love the leathern marvels bright;
Levant and polished calf, though dear
To purse, and dearer to the sight.
The armour of the bravest knight
Should shine the brightest on his breast:
No rust of age should cast its blight.
I like to see my friends well drest.

L'E NVOI .

Friend, I dislike in sorry flight
To see a loved and honoured guest;
In goodly garb I'd have him dight:
I like to see my friends well drest.