University of Virginia Library

Moral Reflections.

Glean from the brute creation,
Thou vain and haughty man!
That lore thy vaunted reason
Is all too weak to scan!
Of virtue and of prudence
Rich lessons they will grant,
Thou need'st not seek thine ‘Uncle,’
Wouldst thou but heed the Ant!
Thou careless, reckless idler,
Who mak'st of time a mock,
Observe yon thoughtful parrot
Still ask thee—“What's o'clock?'

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Or should unkind Apollo,
Fond bard, his aid refuse,
Go stroke yon sleek Grimalkin—
'Tis thus thou'lt court the mews!
Wouldst learn the faithful friendship
That knows not to decay,
Go ask yon simple shepherd,
He'll smile, and point to Tray!
Etc.