Classic Poem

I.

If to be modest , merits praise ,
And pride is own'd a sin ,
I'll now, O miser! tune my lays,
And, on thy worth , begin.

II.

We by religion , learn to know,
That vanity's a fault ,
And should avoid all public show ,
Of fondly boasting ought.

III.

Thou then art, sure, 'bove others, blest,
And hast more merit , too;
Whose worth lay silent , in thy breast ,
Where none its value knew;
'Till seiz'd, by death , and laid to rest,
Abroad thy bounties flew.