So thinks a man when thoughtful; he prefers
A life of peace till man his anger stirs; 460
Then all the efforts of his reason cease,
And he forgets how pleasant was that peace;
Till the wild passions what they seek obtain,
And then he sinks into his calm again.
Now met the lawless clan—in secret met,
And down at their convivial board were set;
The plans in view to past adventures led, }
And the past conflicts present anger bred; }