University of Virginia Library

An vnworthie Prince. 5.

A prince corrupt, hee is the Kingdomes feare,
And the Precursor of Corruption there:
A Pest to the Peace, and Rest of the Realme,
And the Concussor of the common Calme.
A Precedent that bad example giues,
And much mischiefe, and wickednesse contriues.
A naughtie Ductor, that great numbers drawes
Vnto Contempt, and to the breach of Lawes,
When Will and Power, Pryde in furie horse,
To act Ambitions bad designes perforce.
Hee's lyke a dreadfull Dreame to one that's vext,
And in the sprite much troubled, and perplext.
H'affrights, and most into his humours then,
The very mindes and hearts of prudent Men,
And for too much delight in Vanities,
Hee (carelesse) quites the loue of all the Wise:
And with th'advise of grosse and giddie Heads,
His Actions all imprudently proceeds.
Hee's lyke a little mist, before the Sunne
His Carriere and dayly course beginne:
Which aye the more, and greater that it growes,
Lesse good it doth, and operation showes.
Hee is the griefe of the King, the Queenes sorrow,
And the Crosse of the Court, both even and morrow.
The Curse of Crownes, the Seede of Vnhappinesse,
And the vngracious Fruite of Vngodlinesse.
The Canker hee's that Kingdomes cleane consumes,
And Treasure Boxes empties all, and toomes.
His Countrey last, it may with Care him call
An vndigesting Bolle of bitter Gall.