University of Virginia Library


49

HORACE, Lib. II. Ode X.

Wouldst Thou, Licinius, find the way
To steer through Life's uncertain sea,
Look how too far the main you try,
Or wholly on the shore rely.
The Man who seeks the happier state,
Nor meanly Low, nor vainly Great,
With like aversion will behold
The Filth of rags, and Pomp of gold.
Mark how the Pines that spread on high,
But more provoke the hostile Sky;
The pond'rous Dome, and lofty Wall,
With greater Ruin only fall:
And where th' ambitious Hills aspire,
The Lightnings dart their keenest Fire.
The prudent Mind, when Fortune smiles,
Will most suspect her female wiles,
And when she frowns, disdain to mourn,
But calmly wait a better Turn.

50

Think, when thy present Lot is curst,
That present Lot will be thy worst;
The whiter hour will soon appear,
(It is not Winter all the Year.)
Not Phœbus, Patron of the Art,
Will always ply the missive Dart,
But now and then his arms resign,
And revel with the tuneful Nine.
Still be prepar'd, lest Cares oppress,
And always cautious in Success;
Nor trust too much the wanton Gale,
There's Danger in a swelling Sail.