Here quietly rest in their kindred earth
The mortal remains of ROWLAND WILLIAMS.
We are but dust and a shadow!
He was the first male child born in this island
Of European parents - and therefore literally
The Father of the Country.
When arrived at manhood,he displayed
The manly character both in arms and eloquence.
He was an honour to himself and his friends.
In the field a daring commander,
In council an intelligent adviser.
What avails force without wisdom?
Loyal to his king, a patron to his country,
A father to his children, hospitable to strangers,
Kind his friends - in a word, all things
to all men: Just in his dealings: of sound
Mind and body: of excellent temper: wealthy
By honourable exertion: he died full of years,
Being above eighty years of age.
He was buried the 20th day of July,1713.
Since we must surely die,
How soon ought we to repent!