To gain what's fit ye're able,
If ye in faith can but excel;
Such are the myths of fable.
1827.* ——- THREE PALINODIAS.
I.
"Incense is hut a tribute for the gods,—
To mortals 'tis but poison."
THE smoke that from thine altar blows,
Can it the gods offend?
For I observe thou hold'st thy nose—
Pray what does this portend?
Mankind deem incense to excel
Each other earthly thing,
So he that cannot bear its smell,
No incense e'er should bring.