Verses from the Pen of Sir Francis Drake
(Western Antiquary, May 1881)

From the preface to Sir George Peckham’s "True Report of Late Discoveries of Newfoundland, by Sir Humphrey Gilbert", 1583

"Sir Fraunces Drake, Knight, in commendacion of this Treatise"

Who seekes by worthie deedes to gaine renowne for hire,
Whose hart, whose hand, whose purse is prest to purchase his desire;
If anie such there bee that thirsteth after Fame,
Lo! heere a meane to winne himself an everlasting name
Who seekes by gaine and wealth t’ advaunce his house and blood,
Whose care is great, whose toile no lesse, whose hope is all for good;
If anie one there be that covetts such a trade,
Lo! heere the plot for common wealth and private gain is made.

He that for vertue’s sake will venture farre and neere,
Whose zeale is strong, whose practice trueth, whose faith is void of feere–
If any such there bee, inflamed with holie care,
Heere may he fine a readie meane his purpose to declare;
So that for each degree, this Treatise dooth unfolde
The path to fame, the proofe of zeale, and way to purchase gold.

-Fraunces Drake

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