University of Virginia Library

THE SULTAN AND THE EXVIZIER.

A COLLOQUY: FROM THE PERSIAN.

SULTAN.
Since you turned Dervish, long ago,
By true report your life I know,
And high advance in wisdom's lore;
And much, believe me, I deplore
The day I lost—by envious Fate—
My good Prime Minister of State.

DERVISH.
Thanks! gracious Sire! the life I live
Has more of peace than power can give;
Here, in my cloister, I have learned
Contempt of rank; and all I earned
Of power and pelf in your employ
Would poorly stead my present joy.

SULTAN.
No doubt!—and as for power and pelf,
I 'd like a quiet life myself;
And yet your wisdom I would fain
Employ to serve my realm again;
The truly wise are truly great,
And such, alone, should rule the state.

DERVISH.
'T is true, your Majesty; and yet,
I would not pay the hateful debt:
You call me wise; well—be it so;
But being wise, I must forego
An office which (am I too bold?)
A wise man would not choose to hold!