64
An excellent adage commands that we should
Relate of the dead that alone which is good;
But of the great Lord who here lies in lead
We know nothing good but that he is dead.
First published in The Friend, No. 12, Nov. 9, 1809. Included in Essays, &c., iii. 986. First collected in P. and D. W., 1877, ii. 178.
65
COMPARATIVE BREVITY OF GREEK AND ENGLISH
χρυσὸν ἀνὴρ εὑρὼν ἔλιπε βρόχον, αὐτὰρ ὁ χρυσὸν
ὅν λίπεν οὐχ εὑρὼν ἧψεν ὅν εὗρε βρόχον.
Jack finding gold left a rope on the ground:
Bill missing his gold used the rope which he found.
First published in Omniana, 1812, ii. 123. First collected in P. and D. W. 1877, ii. 374.
66
EPIGRAM ON THE SECRECY OF A CERTAIN LADY
'She's secret as the grave, allow!'
'I do; I cannot doubt it.
But 'tis a grave with tombstone on,
That tells you all about it.'
First published in The Courier, Jan. 3, 1814. Included in Essays, &c., iii. 986. Now collected for the first time.
67
MOTTO
FOR A TRANSPARENCY DESIGNED BY WASHINGTON ALLSTON AND EXHIBITED AT BRISTOL ON 'PROCLAMATION DAY'—June 29, 1814.
We've fought for Peace, and conquer'd it at last,
The rav'ning vulture's leg seems fetter'd fast!
Britons, rejoice! and yet be wary too:
The chain may break, the clipt wing sprout anew.
First published in Cottle's Early Recollections, 1836, ii. 145. First collected 1890.
ANOTHER VERSION
We've conquered us a Peace, like lads true metalled:
And Bankrupt Nap's accounts seem all now settled.
Ibid. ii. 145. First collected 1893.