But near its change it dwindles almost to a hair.
The very earth, that in firm steadfastness doth sit,
When subject to an earthquake, shakes as in a fit.
How many regions in the world, encroaching sands
Have changed from gardens into bare and sterile lands.400
The air, that with its breezes gives new life to all,
When Providence ordains, brings pestilence and thrall.
Sweet water’s running stream, a very source of life,
In pond confined, turns fetid, black, and poison-rife.
The fire, so arrogant when fed with breezes long,