Historical and authentic account of the ancient and noble family of Keith, Earls Marichal of Scotland

T6
Judging a prudent nation soon would *ee,
Whilst Biron rul'd no subject could be free;
"None could govern but either knaves or fools,
Or vile abandon'd mercenary tools.
He set the empire's interest in true light,
Which soon made peers and prelates judge it
right
To join the General, Biron to destroy,
And then proclaim their native prince with joy
Who quickly pardon'd those who rashly err'd,
And then, by merit, men of parts preferr'd.
Happy the land where such brave men bear
sway,
Who scorn tire nation's interest to betray :
No place, no pension, can their honour stain,
Both bribes and threats they equally disdain:
Whilst other lands are in their ruler's curst,
W'ho only for the nation's treasure thirst;
Their blood, their wealth, their commerce they
destroy,
Their present pleasure all their thoughts em-
ploy.
Let Britain's Isle such rulers never see,
And may her sons like brothers all agree;
Faithful to serve their kmgand country's cause,
To guard their commerce., liberties and laws;
May they repent their crimes, and heaven im-
plore,
That none of Cromwells race may rule them
more.
Forbear my muse, what numbers wilt thou
find.,
To paint the virtues that in Keith are join'dS
G