There were two lads, call’d Shelley, hither brought, But whence we know not—it was never sought; Their wandering mother left them, left her name, 30 And the boys throve and valiant men became: Handsome, of more than common size, and tall, And, no one’s kindred, seem’d beloved of all; All seem’d alliance by their deeds to prove, And loved the youths who could not claim their love. One was call’d James, the more sedate and grave, The other Robert—names their neighbours gave; They both were brave, but Robert loved to run And meet his danger—James would rather shun The dangerous trial; but, whenever tried, 40 He all his spirit to the act applied. Robert would aid on any man bestow, } James would his man and the occasion know; } For that was quick and prompt—this temperate and slow. } Robert would all things he desired pursue, James would consider what was best to do; All spoke of Robert as a man they loved, And most of James as valued and approved. Both had some learning: Robert his acquired By quicker parts, and was by praise inspired; 50 James, as he was in his acquirements slow, Would learn the worth of what he tried to know. In fact, this youth was generous—that was just; The one you loved, the other you would trust; Yet him you loved you would for truth approve, And him you trusted you would likewise love. Such were the brothers—James had found his way } To Nether Hall, and there inclined to stay; } He could himself command, and therefore could obey. } He with the keeper took his daily round, 60 A rival grew, and some unkindness found; But his superior farm’d! the place was void, And James guns, dogs, and dignity enjoy’d. Robert had scorn of service; he would be A slave to no man—happy were the free, And only they;—by such opinions led, Robert to sundry kinds of trade was bred. Nor let us wonder if he sometimes made An active partner in a lawless trade; Fond of adventure, wanton as the wave, 70 He loved the danger and the law to brave; But these were chance-adventures, known to few— Not that the hero cared what people knew. The brothers met not often—When they met, James talk’d of honest gains and scorn of debt, Of virtuous labour, of a sober life, And what with credit would support a wife. But Robert answer’d—“How can men advise Who to a master let their tongue and eyes? Whose words are not their own? whose foot and hand 80 Run at a nod, or act upon command? Who cannot eat or drink, discourse or play, Without requesting others that they may. “Debt you would shun; but what advice to give, Who owe your service every hour you live! Let a bell sound, and from your friends you run, Although the darling of your heart were one; But, if the bondage fits you, I resign You to your lot—I am content with mine!”