Can give no Inspiration to his Muse.
But, my dear Richard, when this transient Joy
Some sudden Ills and dire Events destroy;
When the fond wife [or] faithful husband [dies]—
Fate unforseen!—when Wealth takes wings and [flies];
When by Deceit a Maiden’s peace is lost;
When tender Love by cruel fate is crost;
When groaning Poverty and fell Disease 30
Upon the happy and the wealthy seize,
And when on Man’s soft Heart these Evils press: