No More Learning

BLAME THE REWARD OF PRINCES.

Among disasters that dissension brings,
This not the least is, which belongs to kings:
If wars go well, each for a part lays claim;
If ill, then kings, not soldiers, bear the blame.


775. CLEMENCY IN KINGS.

Kings must not only cherish up the good,
But must be niggards of the meanest blood.


776. ANGER.

Wrongs, if neglected, vanish in short time,
But heard with anger, we confess the crime.


777. A PSALM OR HYMN TO THE GRACES.

Glory be to the Graces!
That do in public places
Drive thence whate'er encumbers
The list'ning to my numbers.

Honour be to the Graces!
Who do with sweet embraces,
Show they are well contented
With what I have invented.

Worship be to the Graces!
Who do from sour faces,
And lungs that would infect me,
For evermore protect me.


778. A HYMN TO THE MUSES.

Honour to you who sit
Near to the well of wit,
And drink your fill of it.

Glory and worship be
To you, sweet maids, thrice three,
Who still inspire me,

And teach me how to sing
Unto the lyric string
My measures ravishing.

Then while I sing your praise,
My priesthood crown with bays
Green, to the end of days.


779. UPON JULIA'S CLOTHES.

Whenas in silks my Julia goes,
Then, then, methinks, how sweetly flows
The liquefaction of her clothes.

Next, when I cast mine eyes and see
That brave vibration each way free;
O how that glittering taketh me!


780. MODERATION.

In things a moderation keep:
_Kings ought to shear, not skin their sheep_.


781. TO ANTHEA.

Let's call for Hymen, if agreed thou art;
_Delays in love but crucify the heart_.