The poetical works of John Godfrey Saxe :: :: University of Virginia Library

“All men think all men mortal but
Themselves!” says Young. The case is put
Extremely strong, and yet, in sooth,
The statement scarce exceeds the truth.
That is to say, excepting those
So very ill they can't suppose

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They 've long to live, there 's scarcely one
But deems his earthly course will run
(Despite some transient doubts and fears)
Beyond his friend's of equal years.
In proof how far such dreams prevail,
Pray mark this old historic tale.
A General, whose lengthened term
Of life had found him quite infirm,
Was questioned by his Majesty
(Older, by several years, than he)
About his place of burial. “Where,”
The King inquired with friendly care,
“Pray tell me, would it please you best
Your brave old honored bones should rest?”
“Ah!” said the Soldier, “seldom I
Have thought of death; but when I die,
I 'd have my grave not quite alone,
But near to where they 've placed your own!”