University of Virginia Library

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61

ODE XXIII. THE VANITY OF RICHES.

If the treasur'd Gold could give
Man a longer Term to live,
I'd employ my utmost Care
Still to keep, and still to spare;
And, when Death approach'd, would say,
“Take thy Fee, and walk away.”

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62

But since riches cannot save
Mortals from the gloomy Grave,
Why should I myself deceive,
Vainly sigh, and vainly grieve?
Death will surely be my Lot,
Whether I am rich, or not.