The castles shall crumble; then shall climb the swift fire,
The greediest of guests, grimly and ruthlessly
Eat the ancient treasure that of old men possessed
While still on the earth was their strength and their pride.
815 Hence I strive to instruct each steadfast man
That he be cautious in the care of his soul,
And not pour it forth in pride in that portion of days
That the Lord allows him to live in the world,
While the soul abideth safe in the body,
820 In that friendly home. It behooveth each man