An Epitaph

Near this spot

Are deposited the remains of one

Who Possessed beauty without vanity,

Strength without insolence,

Courage without ferocity,

And all the virtues of man without his vices.

This praise, which would be unmeaning flattery

If inscribed over human ashes,

Is but a just tribute to the memory of

Boatswain, a dog.

Lord Byron

(1788-1824)