In life's mixt scene, where various parts agree
To form one tedious Tragi-Comedy,
How few, alas! in either part can shine?
But both to grace, what forces must combine!
In some low scene is  deem'd a wit?
With patience 'meekest ear attentive sit.
In mimic state, and proud fantastic pow'r,
Is  crown'd the Queen of half an hour?
The Queen of half an island if she please;
The wise have no debates with such as these.
But when the rising scenes with anguish swell,
'Tis Yours the higher, harder part to tell,
And dignify distress by suff'ring well.
Whether the Stoic's, or the Christian's part,
Found in the head, or working at the heart;
Here all the kind affections, touch'd, comply;
There rous'd again to study'd apathy.