Classic Poem

Stay , traveller, and know that under
This stone are laid the bones of Wonder ,
A hound the noblest, gentlest, best,
By all belov'd, admir'd, caress'd:
His aspect had the air of state,
Slow, and majestical his gait;
His note was tuneful, deep, and clear,
To rouze the soul, or charm the ear;
His scent sagacious to pursue
The leveret o'er the tainted dew.
But O! what numbers shall I find
To tell the virtues of his mind?
A grateful, generous, open heart,
Kind and courteous, without art,
Fidelity, and frank behaviour
Won his lady's grace and favour.
O, reader! may'st thou learn to be
As faithful, just, and good as he;
Then when thy vital spirit's fled,
And thou art number'd with the dead,
All hearts with grief will burst asunder,
And mourn for thee, as now for Wonder .