XX THE LIFE AND WRITINGS OF 



XX. 



^las ! ovr time is here so short. 



That in what state soe'er 'tis spent 



Of joy or woe, does not import. 

 Provided it be innocent. 



XXI. 



But we may make it pleasant too. 

 If we will take our measures right. 



And not tvhat heav'n has done, undo 

 By an unruly appetite. 



XXII. 



'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. 



XXIII. 



A very little satisfies 



An honest and a grateful heart ; 

 And who would more than will suffice. 



Does covet more than is his part. 



XXIV. 



That man is happy in his share. 



Who is warm clad, and cleanly fed ; 



JVhose necessaries bound his care. 

 And honest labor makes his bed. 



XXV. 



IVho free from debt, and clear from crimes. 

 Honors those laws that others fear ; 



Who ill of princes, in worst times. 

 Will neither speak himself nor hear. 



x.\vi. 



IVho from the busy world retires 



To be more useful to it still. 

 And to no greater good aspires. 



But only the eschewing ill. 



XXVII. 



Who with his angle and his books 



Can think the longest day well spent. 



