[Told that] his dying Honour would repent. 100

“The Vicar came [at once, with] Christian speed;

The Doctor bade him, if he dared, proceed;

For he was watching how his drugs would back

The struggling Nature in this strong Attack:

Such Thoughts at best would Nature’s force impair

And stop his Progress; ’twas not fighting fair.

‘If I succeed, there’s nothing more to do;

And, if I fail, you’ll have a Day or two;

When Hope is over, and a Man prepares