Alexander Pope (1688–1744). Complete Poetical Works. 1903.
Poems of Uncertain DateTo the Right Hon. the Earl of Oxford
Upon a Piece of News in Mist [Mist’s Journal] That the Rev. Mr. W. Refused to Write against Mr. Pope Because His Best Patron Had a Friendship for the Said Pope
W
They say on Pope would fall,
Would his best Patron let his Pen
Discharge his inward gall.
Which none but you can clear,
Or father Francis, ’cross the sea,
Or else Earl Edward here.
And much to both he owes;
But which to him will be the best
The Lord of Oxford knows.