The three tours of Doctor Syntax In search of 1. The picturesque, 2. Of consolation, 3. Of a wife. The text complete. [By William Combe] With four illustrations |
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 | The three tours of Doctor Syntax |  |
As we pass life's uncertain day, We may submit, but must obey;
And all that we are called to do, Is to keep virtue in our view.
Not all the dignity of power Can quicken life's sad lagging hour;
Nor glutted avarice impart A pleasure to the aching heart.
If fortune's gifts you truly rate,
Then tell me what would mend your state.
If real joy on wealth is built, Villains might comfort find in guilt:
But when he sees th'increasing store
The miser's fears increase the more.
Is happiness the point in view? I mean the real and the true;
She nor in camps nor courts resides, Nor in the humble cottage bides:
Seek her alike in ev'ry sphere, Where virtue is, for she is there.
'Tis to no rank of life confin'd, But dwells in ev'ry honest mind,
As much, at least, as e'er is known For mortal man to call his own.
And all that we are called to do, Is to keep virtue in our view.
Not all the dignity of power Can quicken life's sad lagging hour;
Nor glutted avarice impart A pleasure to the aching heart.
If fortune's gifts you truly rate,
Then tell me what would mend your state.
If real joy on wealth is built, Villains might comfort find in guilt:
But when he sees th'increasing store
The miser's fears increase the more.
Is happiness the point in view? I mean the real and the true;
She nor in camps nor courts resides, Nor in the humble cottage bides:
Seek her alike in ev'ry sphere, Where virtue is, for she is there.
'Tis to no rank of life confin'd, But dwells in ev'ry honest mind,
As much, at least, as e'er is known For mortal man to call his own.
| The three tours of Doctor Syntax | |