When being, cursed; extinction, loud implored;

And every thing preferr’d to what we are.

Yet this self-love Lorenzo makes his choice;

And, in this choice triumphant, boasts of joy.

How is his want of happiness betray’d, 899

By disaffection to the present hour!

Imagination wanders far afield:

The future pleases: why? the present pains.—

“But that’s a secret.” Yes, which all men know;

And know from thee, discover’d unawares.