A.D. THE ENGLISH VOYAGES 



1596. 



knowledge content it selfe with naked contemplation, 

 like a barren wombe in a Monastery. We cannot denie 

 that the chiefe commendation of vertue doth consist 

 in action : we truely say, that Otium is animae vivae 

 sepultura : we beleeve, that perfect wisedome in this 

 mobility of all humaine affaires, refuseth not with any 

 price to purchase safetie : and we justly do acknowledge 

 that the Castilians from bare legged mountainers have 

 atteined to their greatnesse by labour & industrie. 

 To sleepe then, because it costeth nothing ; to imbrace 

 the present time, because it flattereth us with deceitfull 

 contentment ; and to kisse security, saying. What evill 

 happeneth unto us ? is the plaine high way to a 

 fearefull downfall : from which the Lord in his mercy 

 deliver us, and give us an understanding heart, in 

 time to see, and to seeke that, which belongeth unto 

 our peace. 



De Guiana carmen Epicum. 



Hat worke of honour and eternall name. 

 For all the world t'envie and us 



t'atchieve, 

 Filles me with furie, and gives armed 



hands 

 To my hearts peace, that els would 

 gladly turne 

 My limmes and every sense into my thoughts 

 Rapt with the thirsted action of my mind ? 

 O Clio, Honors Muse, sing in my voyce, 

 Tell the attempt, and prophecie th'exploit 

 Of his Eliza-consecrated sworde. 

 That in this peacefuU charme of Englands sleepe. 

 Opens most tenderly her aged throte, 

 Offring to powre fresh youth through all her vaines. 

 That flesh of brasse and ribs of Steele retaines. 

 Riches, and Conquest, and Renowme I sing, 

 [III. 669.] Riches with honour. Conquest, without blood. 

 Enough to seat the Monarchie of earth, 



446 



