Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 8.djvu/217

Rh From ancient canons would not vary, But thrice refus'd episcopari. Our bishop's predecessor, Magus, Would offer all the sands of Tagus; Or sell his children, house, and lands, For that one gift, to lay on hands: But all his gold could not avail To have the spirit set to sale. Said surly Peter, "Magus, prithee, Be gone: thy money perish with thee." Were Peter now alive, perhaps, He might have found a score of chaps: Could he but make his gift appear In rents three thousand pounds a year. Some fancy this promotion odd, As not the handiwork of God; Though e'en the bishops disappointed Must own it made by God's anointed, And, well we know, the congé regal Is more secure as well as legal; Because our lawyers all agree, That bishopricks are held in fee. Dear Baldwin chaste, and witty Crosse, How sorely I lament your loss! That such a pair of wealthy ninnies Should slip your time of dropping guineas; For, had you made the king your debtor, Your title had been so much better. EPIGRAM.