IZAAK WALTON AND HIS FRIENDS 



Providence watches over all, 

 And that with an impartial eye ; 



And if to misery we fall, 



'Tis through our own infirmity. 



'Tis want of foresight makes the bold 

 Ambitious youth to danger climb ; 



And want of virtue, when the old 

 At persecution do repine. 



Alas ! our time is, here, so short, 

 That in what state soe'er 'tis spent, 



Of joy, or woe, does not import. 

 Provided it be innocent : 



But we may make it pleasant too, 

 If we will take our measures right ; 



And not what Heav'n has done undo, 

 By an unruly appetite. 



'Tis contentation that, alone, 

 Can make us happy here below ; 



And, when this little life is gone. 

 Will lift us up to heav'n too. 



A very little satisfies 



An honest and a grateful heart ; 

 And who would more than will suffice. 



Does covet more than is his part. 



