"O Suckling, O gallant Sir John,
Thou gentleman poet, first plume of the ton;
Fresh painter of Weddings,' great author of rare
'Poet Sessions
O facile princeps of wit about town.'"
"In his own sphere Sedley is unapproachable; such songs as 'Love still has something of the sea' or 'Phillis is my only joy' easily outdistance all rivals."-A. H. BULLEN.
John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester
I'm none of those who think themselves inspir'd,
Nor write with the vain hope to be admir'd,
But, from a rule I have (upon long trial),
T'avoid with care all sort of self-denial.
Which way soe'er desire and fancy lead,
Contemning fame, that path I boldly tread."
-Epistle to Lord Mulgrave.