Nor less the labours of the mind corrode 25

The solid fabric. For by subtle parts,

And viewless atoms, secret Nature moves

The mighty wheels of this stupendous world.

By subtle fluids pour’d thro’ subtle tubes

The natural, vital, functions are perform’d. 30

By these the stubborn aliments are tam’d;

The toiling heart distributes life and strength;

These the still-crumbling frame rebuild; and these

Are lost in thinking, and dissolve in air.