Flamma sine Fumo or, poems without fictions. Hereunto are annexed the Causes, Symptoms, or Signes of several Diseases with their Cures, and also the diversity of Urines, with their Causes in Poetical measure. By R. W. [i.e. Rowland Watkyns] |
 |
 | Flamma sine Fumo |  |
Upon the Right Worshipful, Sir John Awbrey of Lantrethit, Knight.
Honestas rumor optimum est patrimonium.
Since Truth is from the earth to heaven fled,
Men are by strange, and various fancies led:
The times did alter, yet the world may see
This Knight from change, but not from chance was free.
Some mens Religion like a blaze of fire
Caus'd by dry sticks or thorns, will soon expire.
Such will not row their boat, but where they find
The tide most calm, free from tempestuous wind.
But he great storms, and dangers did foresee,
Yet no foul shipwrack of his faith could be:
No danger could his resolution shake,
Or on his soul a base impression make.
Men might abuse his body, name, or land,
They never could his braver soul command.
The Sun's less constant; for since he begun,
He ne're went back, like Hezekiah's Sun:
I'le speak no more; he praised Cæsar best,
Who silent wonder'd, and did speak the least.
| Flamma sine Fumo | |