What though the leaf, that tempts thee, shows
More tasteful food, more soft repose;
What, though with brighter spangles gay,
Its dew reflects an earlier ray?
Oh! think what dangers guard the prize;
Oh! think what dangers; and be wise!
The pass from leaf to leaf forbear;
Behold how high they wave in air!
And should’st thou fall, tremendous thought!
What ruin would avenge thy fault?