University of Virginia Library

I, round about mee, hear a sound of Peace;
But I (as yet) discover nothing lesse;
Although, I do not see as heretofore
Swords drawn; or hear so oft, the Canons roar.
That, which some dream we have, I cannot find;
Either, I see too much, or they are blinde.
I see it possible; and with clos'd eyes
See also, how it may be otherwise,
Unless both Prince and People joyn as One
In doing that, which is yet left undone.
We have a King (God prosper him:) but hark!
He, hath a people too will finde him work.
He may perceive before this year wheels round,
That, with a wreath of thorns, they him have crown'd;
And, that among their Sweet-meats, taste he shall
A little Honey mixed with much Gall.
What can the Masters Art, at Helm prevail
To save the Ship, that spreadeth every sail
Amongst Rocks in a storm, from being sunk,
VVhen all his Mariners are sick or drunk?
VVhat can the wisest Single person do,
Although King Solomon and David too
VVere of his Council? Joshua General,
Sampson his Champion, and his Life-guard all
Like David's Worthies, till men understand
Their own estate, heed, what GOD hath in hand;
What, he expects, and better can discover
VVhat Grace is offer'd, and what Plagues hang over?
Or, what can any Nations do, whose Kings
And Governours are heedless of such things?