Miscellaneous works of George Wither :: :: University of Virginia Library

XI. To them who object it as a fault, that this Author hath written several Poems, since he resolved to write no more.

I sometimes think my work is done, and then
Resolved am to lay aside my Pen;
Yet, when I do discover some remain
Unfinished, I take it up again:
For, when I promise, what concerneth none
(In any manner) but my self alone,
'Tis alwayes in mine own pow'r, to dispense
With ev'ry such Resolve, without offence;
Then, specially, when else, perhaps, I may
To GOD, my self, or others in some way
Infringe my Duty, by the prosecution
Of that unprofitable Resolution.

For this cause therefore, I now think it fit,
Not only such Resolvings to remit,
But, also, by these Presents, to declare
That, whensoere a just Cause doth appear,
To write, or speak, or do, what I believe
GOD may have honour by, or Men receive
A future benefit, I will assay
(Whilst I have life) to do it as I may.

This Promise binds me; and, I must confess,
That, if in time to come, I shall transgress

Against this Resolution, there's in me
No pow'r whereby I from it can be free.
Reprove me therefore, if at any time
I break this Promise; for it is a crime.