His mind was really given to literature; and he found his earliest patron in his immediate neighbourhood.

This was Sir W.Trumbull, who had retired to his native village of Easthampstead in 1697, after being ambassador at the Porte under James II., and Secretary of State under William III.

Sir William made acquaintance with the Popes, praised the father's artichokes, and was delighted with the precocious son.

The old diplomatist and the young poet soon became fast friends, took constant rides together, and talked over classic and modern poetry.

Pope made Trumbull acquainted with Milton's juvenile poems, and Trumbull encouraged Pope to follow in Milton's steps.