I THINK myself obliged to recommend to you a consideration of the greatest importance; and I should look upon it as a great happiness, if, at the beginning of my reign, I could see the foundation laid of so great and necessary a work, as the increase and encouragement of our sea men in general; that they may be invited, rather than compelled by force and violence, to enter into the service of their country, as oft as occasion shall require it: A consideration worthy the Representatives of a people great and flourishing in trade and navigation. This leads me to mention to you the case of Greenwich Hospital, that care may be taken, by some addition to that fund, to render comfortable and ef fectual that charitable provision, for the support and maintenance of our seamen, worn out, and become decrepit by age and infirmities, in the service of their country. [SPEECH, Jan. 27, 1727-8.] The Roman Ode Its stream divinely clear, and strong; In sense, and sound, Thebes roll'd profound; The torrent roar'd, and foam'd along. III. Let Thebes, nor Rome, So fam'd, presume To triumph o'er a northern Isle ; The North can glow, If dread AUGUSTUS deign to smile. IV. The Naval crown Our fleet if war, or commerce, call, Through waves and storms, And rides in triumph round the ball. V. No former race, This theme to ravish durst aspire ; And melts melodious on my lyrẹ.. VI. My lays I file With cautious toil Ye graces! turn the glowing lines; Your strokes repeat; At every stroke the work refines ! VII. How music charms! Parent of actions, good and brave! And worth inflames ! And holds proud empire o'er the grave ! VIII. Jove mark'd for man A scanty span, But lent him wings to fly his doom; |