University of Virginia Library

I ascend that northern hill ,
And gather the medlars .
An officer , strong and vigorous ,
Morning and evening I am engaged in service .
The king's business is not to be slackly performed ;
And my parents are left in sorrow .

Under the wide heaven ,
All is the king's land .
Within the sea-boundaries of the land ,
All are the king's servants .
His great officers are unfair ,—
Making me serve thus as if I alone were worthy .

My four horses never halt ;
The king's business allows no rest .
They praise me as not yet old ;
They think few like me in vigour .
While the backbone retains its strength ,
I must plan and labour in all parts of the kingdom .

Some enjoy their ease and rest ,
And some are worn out in the service of the State ;
Some rest and loll upon their couches ,
And some never cease marching about .

Some never hear a sound ,
And some are cruelly toiled ;
Some lazily roost , on their backs looking up ,
And some are all-bustled in the service of the king .

Some indulge long in pleasure and drinking ,
And some are miserable , in apprehension of blame ;
Some , at home and abroad , pass critical remarks ,
And some have everything to do .