Epitaph on Sir William Williams + 

Here, foremost in the dangerous paths of fame, + 

Young Williams fought for England’s fair renown; + 

His mind each Muse, each Grace adorned his frame, + 

Nor envy dared to view him with a frown. + 

At Aix, his voluntary sword he drew, + 

There first in blood his infant honour sealed; + 

From fortune, pleasure, science, love, he flew, + 

And scorned repose when Britain took the field. + 

With eyes of flame, and cool undaunted breast + 

Victor he stood on Belleisle’s rocky steeps⁠— + 

Ah, gallant youth; this marble tells the rest, + 

Where melancholy friendship bends, and weeps. + 