Whatever men for loyalty pretend,
'Tis wisdom's part to doubt a faithful friend.
1123. THE MOUNT OF THE MUSES.
After thy labour take thine ease,
Here with the sweet Pierides.
But if so be that men will not
Give thee the laurel crown for lot;
Be yet assur'd, thou shall have one
Not subject to corruption.
1124. ON HIMSELF.
I'll write no more of love; but now repent
Of all those times that I in it have spent.
I'll write no more of life; but wish 'twas ended,
And that my dust was to the earth commended.
1125. TO HIS BOOK.
Go thou forth, my book, though late:
Yet be timely fortunate.
It may chance good luck may send
Thee a kinsman, or a friend,
That may harbour thee, when I
With my fates neglected lie.
If thou know'st not where to dwell,
See, the fire's by: farewell.
1126. THE END OF HIS WORK.
Part of the work remains; one part is past:
And here my ship rides, having anchor cast.