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73
On a Shadow.
An ODE.
I
How are deluded Human KindBy empty Shows betray'd?
In all their Hopes and Schemes they find
A Nothing or a Shade.
II
The Prospects of a Truncheon castThe Soldier on the Wars;
Dismist with shatter'd Limbs at last,
Brats, Poverty, and Scars.
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III
The fond Philosophers for Gain,Will leave unturn'd no Stone,
But tho' they toil with endless Pain,
They never find their Own.
IV
By the same Rock the Chymists drown,And find no friendly hold,
But melt their ready Specie down,
In hopes of fancy'd Gold.
V
What is the mad Projector's Care?In hopes elate and swelling,
He builds his Castles in the Air,
Yet wants an House to dwell in.
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VI
At Court the poor Dependants fail,And damn their fruitless Toil,
When complimented thence to Jayl,
And ruin'd with a Smile.
VII
How to Philosophers will soundSo strange a Truth display'd?
“There's not a Substance to be found,
“But every where a Shade.
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