Classic Poem

S USAN , in friendship's social hour,
Perchance for want of better themes,
We've scann'd the deeds of those in power,
And argued on their various schemes;

Of Whigs and Tories, ins and outs,
Of this and that administration,
We've had our fears, our hopes, our doubts,
To which the state might owe salvation.

Nor did our converse lack the zest
Which difference of opinion gives;
A true-blue Tory thou confest;
And I as staunch a Whig as lives.

When I to censure Pitt have dared
In sober truth, or playful mirth,
How zealously hast thou declared
His matchless eloquence and worth!

By me the statesman's fame and power
Unheeded shone, though bright their blaze:
But I must own at such an hour
I always envied him thy praise.

And though I fear I still must be
A Whig, and in the name must glory;
So warm my friendship that, for thee,
I would, but cannot be, a Tory.