To carve out dials quaintly, point by point,

Thereby to see the minutes how they run;

How many make the hour full complete,

How many hours bring about the day,

How many days will finish up the year,

How many years a mortal man may live:

When this is known, then to divide the times;

So many hours must I tend my flock,

So many hours must I take my rest,

So many hours must I contemplate,