THE FLY'S ADVICE. 55 



" I come from a spot where the fruit of the vine, 



"And the oil of the olive abound; 

 " Where Arabia and India their riches combine, 



" And shed spiciest of odours around. 



" High over blue mountains with snowy white tips, 



" I wander , but use your own eyes, 



" Only look round the shop where you go for your dips, 



" And you'll see the Parnassus of Flies. 



"And now for my council thus rich the domain, 



" Whence I draw inspiration and bread ; 

 "But by lightness, not weight, I this empire maintain, 



"And by. emptiness stand on my head. 



" While others can't climb, using infinite pains, 



" I, gravity turning to jest, 

 "Ascend, with all ease, perpendicular planes, 



"Bough or smooth, just as pleases me best. 

 "So try lightness, friend Poet I warrant you'll find 



" That as I rule matter, so you may rule mind !" 



