Since fire the ordeal is by which stones come to grief.
How often have we spoken to those hearts of stone,
In softest accents of advice! They would hear none!
To foulest ulcer, sharpest remedy’s applied.
The teeth of dogs alone are fit for ass’s hide.105
“Filth to the filthy” is philosophy right sound.
“Birds of a feather flock together” goes its round.
What mates soever for thyself thou choose at last,
Their habits and their qualities acquire thou fast.
Wouldst glory have? To glory must thou raise pretence.