1

The Dog and the Water Lilies

By William Cowper

William Cowper told Lady Hesketh about a walk beside the river at Olney, and the affecting behaviour of his spaniel Beau.

2

Surprised by Heaven

By Frederick Denison Maurice

We turn to books seeking an author’s sympathy and fellowship, but William Cowper’s verse is unusual: he turns to us for ours.

3

The Candidate

By William Cowper

William Cowper’s peace was shattered by the arrival of a Parliamentary candidate doorstepping his Buckinghamshire constituents.

4

A Kitten’s Jest

By William Cowper

In ‘Familiarity Dangerous,’ poet William Cowper tells a little tale warning that if you join in the game you play by the rules.

5

Winter Wisdom

By William Cowper

William Cowper feels he has learnt more on one short walk than in many hours of study.

6

The Jackdaw

By William Cowper

A bird perched upon a church steeple casts a severe glance over the doings of men.