IZAAK WALTON AND HIS FRIENDS 



But first leave all our sorrows behind us ; 



If misfortune doe come, 



We are all gone from home, 



And a fishing she never can find us. 



The Angler is free 



From the cares that degree 



Finds it self with so often tormented ; 



And although we should slay 



Each a hundred to-day, 



'Tis a slaughter needs ne'er be repented. 



And though we display 



All our Arts to betray 



What were made for man's Pleasure and Diet 



Yet both Princes and States 



May, for all our quaint Bates, 



Rule themselves and their people in quiet. 



We scratch not our pates, 



Nor repine at the Rates 



Our Superiors impose on our living ; 



But do frankly submit. 



Knowing they have more wit 



In demanding, than we have in giving. 



Whilst quiet we sit 



We conclude all things fit, 



