Page:George Chapman, a critical essay (IA georgechapmancri00swin).pdf/141

 Thou must not undervalue what thou hast, In weighing it with that which more is graced; The worth that weigheth inward should not long For outward prices. This should make thee strong In thy close value: Nought so good can be As that which lasts good between God and thee. Remember thine own verse—Should Heaven turn Hell For deeds well done. I would do ever well."

The dignity and serenity of spirit here inculcated are not compatible with the tone of fierce remonstrance and repining defiance which alternates with such higher tones of meditation and self-reliance as constantly exalt and dignify the praises of those patrons to whom he appeals for recognition as for a right not to be withheld without discredit to them and danger of future loss of that glory which he had to give. In all dedicatory verse known to me I find nothing that resembles the high self-respect and haughty gratitude of a poet who never forgets that for every benefit of patronage conferred he gives fully as much as he may receive. Men usually hurry over the dedications of poet to patron with a keen angry sense of shame and sorrow, of pity and repulsion and regret; but it may be justly claimed for Chapman that his verses of