Reason and self-command are precious still

And yielding all to blighted hope is ill.

Be in this matter thine own lord, although

Thy longed-for happiness thou must forego.

For man is born exposed to circumstance,

To be the target of all evil chance,

And if we like it or we like it not

We still can not escape our destined lot.

Nor hath misfortune singled thee, my son;

It lays its burdens upon every one.