University of Virginia Library


70

[Though here on earth men differ, in the grave]

Though here on earth men differ, in the grave
There's no distinction; all alike they have.
Then must the Conqueror, with the captive spred,
On one bare earth, as in the common bed
The all commanding Generall hath no span
Of ground allowd, more then a common man.
Folly with Wisedome hath an equall share,
The foul, and faire, to like dust changed are.
This is, of all mortality, the end:
Thersites now with Nereus dares contend;
And with Achilles he hath equall place,
That living, durst not look him in the face.
The servant with his Master, and the maid,
Stretch'd by her Mistress; both their heads are laid
Upon an equal pillow; subjects keep
Courts, with Kings equal, & as soft they sleep,
Lodging their heads upon a turfe of grasse,
As they on Marble, or on figur'd brasse.