When Stoner asks about Anglo-Saxon versification, Walker responds with talk of “sensibility.”

Shenstone’s ease of versification adds mimetic pleasure: we can relax in the cosy-armchair stanzas, and imagine firelight, friendliness and something warming to sip.

This does not necessarily include a gift for versification, which is an aptitude shared by many who are not truly poets.

It was as though Mary Poppins had taken a class in versification.

Between his rough versification and the polished elegance of Pope there can be no comparison; but the thoughts are the same.