For the whole city to talk foolishly
Till that were cancelled! And, when we were gone,
We left an air behind us, which alone Was able to make the two next companies Right witty! though but downright fools, more wise!
When I remember this, and see that now The country gentlemen begin to allow My wit for dry bobs; then I needs must cry, "I see my days of ballading grow nigh!" 60 I can already riddle; and can sing Catches, sell bargains; and I fear shall bring Myself to speak the hardest words I find Over as oft as any, with one wind, That takes no medicines! But one thought of thee
Makes me remember all these things to be The wit of our young men, fellows that show No part of good, yet utter all they know! Who, like trees of the guard, have growing souls.
Only strong Destiny, which all controls, 70 I hope hath left a better fate in store For me, thy friend, than to live ever poor, Banished unto this home! Fate, once again, Bring me to thee, who canst make smooth and plain
The way of knowledge for me; and then I, Who have no good but in thy company, Protest it will my greatest comfort be To acknowledge all I have to flow from thee! Ben, when these scenes are perfect, we'll taste wine!
I'll drink thy Muse's health! thou shalt quaff mine!
A passing glance, a lightning 'long the skies, That, ush'ring thunder, dies straight to our sight;
A spark, of contraries which doth arise, Then drowns in the huge depths of day and
Is this small Small call'd life, held in such price Of blinded wights, who nothing judge aright. Of Parthian shaft so swift is not the flight As life, that wastes itself, and living dies. O! what is human greatness, valour, wit? What fading beauty, riches, honour, praise? 10 To what doth serve in golden thrones to sit, Thrall earth's vast round, triumphal arches raise?
All is a dream, learn in this prince's fall, In whom, save death, nought mortal was at all.
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