University of Virginia Library

Psalme XXXIX.

[I said, I will my wayes observe]

[Part 1.]

I said, I will my wayes observe,
Lest I should swerve:
VVith Bit and Reines my Tongue keepe in,
Too prone to Sinne.
Nor to their calumnie replie,
VVho glorie in Impietie.

I, like a Statue, silent stood,
Dumbe even to good:
My Sorrowes boyling in my brest
Exil'd my rest:
But when my Heart incenst with wrong
Grew hot, I gave my Griefe a tongue.

Of those few dayes I have to spend,
And my last End,
Informe me, Lord; that I may so
My Frailty know.

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48

My time is made short, as a Span;
As nothing is the Age of man.

Man nothing is but Vanitie,
Though thron'd on high;
Walks like a Shadow, and in vaine
Turmoiles with paine:
He heaps up wealth with wretched care,
Yet knowes not who shall prove his Heire.