University of Virginia Library


222

FABLE XIX. The Sick-Man and the Angel.

Are there no Hopes, the Patient cries?
The Doctor turns away, and sighs.—
The dying Miser looks aghast;
With Shame reviews his Actions past;
But thinks his Will may make amends,
And on his Pious Gifts depends.—
An Angel came and frowning said,
Give what thou hast before thou'rt dead.—
Why in such haste?—I've made my Will.—
Perhaps I may recover still.—
“Thou Fool! thy Will! Thy Hopes are vain,
“Die and despair.—Thy Heav'n was Gain.