 | Miscellaneous works of George Wither |  |
Though of my Friends, I may almost professe,
As did Elias, in another case,
I know not one (not one of those at least,
Who friendship for meer civil ends profest)
Yet here this day, may many thousands be
VVho are my real friends, unknown to mee:
Yea, peradventure many among those
VVho at this present time are thought my Foes.
To them therefore, I wishing Grace and Peace;
Do now, where ere they live, these Lines address
To fortifie their faith, and them incline
By their endeavours to help strengthen mine;
And that by our Petitions joyntly made,
VVe may get safety where it can be had;
For, whether of a low degree or high,
To trust to men is trusting to a Lye.
As did Elias, in another case,
I know not one (not one of those at least,
Who friendship for meer civil ends profest)
14
VVho are my real friends, unknown to mee:
Yea, peradventure many among those
VVho at this present time are thought my Foes.
To them therefore, I wishing Grace and Peace;
Do now, where ere they live, these Lines address
To fortifie their faith, and them incline
By their endeavours to help strengthen mine;
And that by our Petitions joyntly made,
VVe may get safety where it can be had;
For, whether of a low degree or high,
To trust to men is trusting to a Lye.
| Miscellaneous works of George Wither | |