Thus will it be when man permits a vice
First to invade his heart, and then entice;
When wishes vain and undefined arise,
And that weak heart deceive, seduce, surprise;
When evil Fortune works on Folly’s side, 790
And rash Resentment adds a spur to Pride;
Then life’s long troubles from these actions come,
In which a moment may decide our doom.
TALES OF THE HALL.