Chapter VI: Front Matter (6)

The Picture of a _Crowned-king_, here, stands
Upon a _Globe_; and, with outstretched hands,
Holds forth, in view, a _Law-booke_, and a _Sword_:
Which plaine and moderne _Figures_, may afford
This meaning; that, a _King_, who hath regard
To _Courts for pleading_, and _a Court of Guard_,
And, at all times, a due respect will carry,
To pious _Lawes_, and _Actions military_;
Shall not be _Monarch_, onely in those Lands,
That _are_, by _Birth right_, under his commands:
But, also, might (if just occasion were)
Make this whole _Globe_ of Earth, his power to feare;
Advance his _Favorites_; and, bring downe all
His _Opposites_, below his pedestall.
His conquering _Sword_, in forraigne Realmes, he drawes,
As oft, as there is just, or needfull cause:
At home, in ev’ry _Province_ of his Lands,
At all times, armed are his _Trayned bands_.
His _Royall fleets_, are terrours to the Seas;
At all houres, rigg’d, for usefull Voyages:
And, often, he his _Navy_ doth increase,
That _Warres_ Provisions, may prolong his _Peace_.
Nor, by the tenure of the _Sword_, alone,
Delighteth he to hold his awfull _Throne_,
But, likewise, labours, Mischiefes to prevent,
By wholsome _Lawes_, and rightfull _Goverment_.
For, where the _Sword_ commands, without the _Law_,
A _Tyrant_ keepes the Land in slavish awe:
And, where good _Lawes_ doe want an _Armed pow’r_,
Rebellious _Knaves_, their _Princes_, will devoure.

_=Faire-shewes=, we should not so much heed,
As the Vprightnesse of the =Deed=._

ILLVSTR. XXX. _Book. 3_]

When wee should use a _Ruler_, or a _Square_,
Or such like _Instruments_, as usefull are,
In forming other things; we prize not so
The carving, or the colourable show
(Which makes them beautifull in outward sight)
As when, for _Vsefulnesse_, we finde them right.
A warped _Bowe_, though strung with silken threads,
And, crooked _Arrowes_, tipt with Golden heads,
Delight not _Archers_; tyet, such uselesse Toyes
Be fit enough for Bunglers, and for Boyes.
A skilfull _Artist_ (in what Art soe’re,
He seekes, to make his ablenesse appeare)
Will give large Prices, with much more content,
To buy a plaine (if perfect) _Instrument_;
Then, take for nothing (or, for thankes alone)
An uselesse _Toole_, though, gay to looke upon.
From whence, observe; that, if there must be sought,
When meere _Mechanick-workes_ are to be wrought,
Such _Instruments_, as rather have esteeme
For their _true-being_, then for what they seeme.
Much more, should all those _Rules_ be such, whereby
Wee goe about, our selves to rectify;
And, build up, what in _Body_, or in _minde_,
We may defective, or impaired finde.
Else, peradventure, that we thinke to mend,
More faulty may become, at later end.
But, hence, I chiefly learne, to take a care,
My _Life_, and _Actions_, rather be _sincere_,
Then _seeming_ such: And, yet, Ile thinke no shame,
To _seeme_, to be as honest, as _I am_.

_My =Substance=, and my =Light=, are spent,
In seeking other mens content._

ILLVSTR. XXXI. _Book. 3_]

If this nigh-wasted _Candle_, you shall view,
And, heed it well, it may enlighten you
To looke with more compassion, on their paines,
Who rob themselves, to multiply your gaines.
The _Taper_ burnes, to give another light,
Ev’n till it selfe, it hath consumed quite;
And, all the profit, which it thence doth winne,
Is to be snufft, by ev’ry _Commer-in_.
This is the Lot of some, whom I have knowne,
Who, freely, all their life-time, have bestowne
In such industrious labour, as appeares,
To further others profits, more then theirs;
And, all their _Patrimonies_, well nigh spent,
The ruining of others, to prevent.
The _wit_, the _strength_, and all the _pow’r_ they had,
(Which might, by probability, have made
Good meanes to raise them, in this world, as high,
As most, who climbe to wealthy dignity)
Ev’n these, they have bestow’d, to better them,
Who their indeavours, for their paines, contemne.
These are those _Lamps_, whose _flames_, from time to time,
Have through each _Age_, and through-out ev’ry _Clime_,
To one another, that true _Light_ convey’d,
Which _Ignorance_, had, els, long since betray’d
To utter darknesse. These, despightfull _Pride_
Oft snuffs; and, oft, to put them out, hath try’d.
But, from the brightnesse of such _Lights_, as they,
We got our _Light of knowledge_, at this day.
To _them_, God make us kinder; and to _Him_,
More thankfull, that we gain’d such light by _them_.

_The safest =Riches=, hee shall gaine,
Who alwayes =Faithfull= doth remaine._

ILLVSTR. XXXII. _Book. 3_]

The _Horne-of-plenty_, which _Wealth_ signifies,
The _Hand-in-hand_, which _Plighted-faith_ implies,
(Together being painted) seeme to teach,
That, such as will be _honest_, shall be _rich_.
If this be so, why then for _Lucre-sake_,
Doe many breake the _Promises_ they make?
Why doe they cheat and couzen, lye, and sweare?
Why practise they all Villanies that are?
To compasse _Wealth_? And, how doe such as they
Inlarge their ill-got _Portions_, ev’ry day?
Or, whence proceedes it, that sometimes we see
Those men grow poore, who _faithfull_ seeme to bee?
Thus, oft it proves; and, therefore, _Falshood_ can,
In likelihood, much more inrich a man,
Then blamelesse _Faith_; and, then, the _Motto_ here
Improper to this _Emblem_, doth appeare.
But, well enough they sute; and, all is true,
Which these things (being thus united) shew.
Should it be then concluded, that all those,
Who poore and honest seeme, have made but showes
Of reall _Faith_? And, therfore, plagu’d have bin
With publicke lashes, for their private sin?
Indeed, sometime it hath succeeded so:
But, know you should, that, most who richest grow,
In _Outward-wealth_, are very poore in that,
Which brings true _Plentie_, and a blest Estate:
And, that, _Good men_, though poore they seeme to bee,
Have _Riches_, which the _Worldling_ cannot see.
Now He, who findes himselfe endow’d with such,
(Whate’re wee thinke him) is exceeding _rich_.

_=Poore-Theeves, in Halters= we behold,
And, =great-Theeves=, in their =Chaines of gold=._

ILLVSTR. XXXIII. _Book. 3_]

If you, this _Emblem_, well have look’d upon,
Although you cannot helpe it, yet, bemone
The Worlds blacke Impudence; and, if you can,
Continue (or become) an honest man.
The poore, and petty _Pilferers_, you see
On _Wheeles_, on _Gibbets_, and the _Gallow-tree_
Trust up; when they, that farre more guilty are,
Pearle, Silke, and costly Cloth of Tissue, weare.
Good _God_! how many hath each _Land_ of those,
Who, neither limbe, nor life, nor credit lose
(But, rather live befriended, and applauded)
Yet, have of all their livelihoods defrauded
The helplesse _Widowes_, in their great distresse?
And, of their Portions, robd the _Fatherlesse_?
Yet, censur’d others Errours, as if none
Had cause to say, that they amisse have done?
How many, have assisted to condemne
Poore soules, for what was never stolne by them?
And, persecuted others, for that Sin,
Which they themselves, had more transgressed in?
How many worthlesse men, are great become,
By that, which they have stolne, or cheated from
Their _Lords_? or (by some practices unjust)
From those, by whom they had beene put in trust?
How many _Lawyers_, wealthy men are growne,
By taking Fees, for _Causes_ overthrowne
By their defaults? How many, without feare,
Doe rob the _King_, and _God_, yet blamelesse are?
_God_ knowes how many! would I did so, too,
_So I had pow’r to make them better doe_.

_Whil’st thou dost, here, injoy thy breath,
Continue =mindfull= of thy =Death=._

ILLVSTR. XXXIV. _Book. 3_]

When thou beholdest on this _Burying-stone_,
The melancholly _Night-bird_, sitting on
The fleshlesse ruines of a _rotten-Skull_,
(Whose Face, perhaps, hath been more beautifull,
Then thine is now) take up a serious thought;
And, doe as thou art by the _Motto_ taught.
_Remember Death_: and, minde, I thee beseech,
How soone, these _Fowles_ may at thy window screech;
Or, call thee (as the common people deeme)
To dwell in _Graves_, and _Sepulchers_, by them,
Where nothing else, but _Bats_, and _Owles_, appeare;
Or, _Goblins_, form’d by _Fancies_, and, by _Feare_.
If thou shalt be advis’d, to meditate
Thy latter end, before it be too late,
(And, whil’st thy _friends_, _thy strength_, and _wits_ may bee
In likely case, to help and comfort thee)
There may be courses taken, to divert
Those _Frights_, which, else, would terrifie thy heart,
When _Death_ drawes neare; and helpe thee plucke away
That _Sting_, of his, which would thy Soule dismay.
But, if thou madly ramble onward, still,
Till thou art sinking downe that _darkesome-hill_,
Which borders on the _Grave_ (and dost beginne
To see the Shades of _Terrour_, and of _Sinne_
To fly acrosse thy _Conscience_) 'twill be hard
To learne this _Lesson_; or, to be prepar’d
For that sad parting; which, will forced bee,
Betweene this much beloved _World_, and _thee_.
Consider this, therefore, while _Time_ thou hast,
And, put not off this _Bus’nesse_, till the last.

_Doe not the golden =Meane=, exceed,
In =Word=, in =Passion=, nor in =Deed=._

ILLVSTR. XXXV. _Book. 3_]

As is the head-strong _Horse_, and blockish _Mule_,
Ev’n such, without the _Bridle_, and the _Rule_,
Our _Nature_ growes; and, is as mischievous,
Till _Grace_, and _Reason_, come to governe us.
The _Square_, and _Bridle_, therefore let us heed,
And, thereby learne to know, what _helpes_ wee need;
Lest, else, (they fayling, timely, to bee had)
Quite out of _Order_, wee, at length, bee made.
The _Square_, (which is an usefull _Instrument_,
To shape foorth senselesse _Formes_) may represent
The _Law_: Because, _Mankind_, (which is by Nature,
Almost as dull, as is the _senselesse-creature_,)
Is thereby, from the _native-rudenesse_, wrought;
And, in the _Way_ of honest-living taught.
The _Bridle_, (which Invention did contrive,
To rule, and guide the _Creature-sensitive_)
May type forth _Discipline_; which, when the _Law_
Hath school’d the _Wit_, must keepe the _Will_ in awe.
And, hee that can by these, his _Passions_ bound,
This _Emblems_ meaning, usefully, hath found.
Lord, let thy sacred _Law_, at all times, bee
A _Rule_, a _Master_, and a _Glasse_ to mee;
(A _Bridle_, and a _Light_) that I may, still,
Both know my _Dutie_, and obey thy _Will_.
Direct my _Feet_; my _Hands_, instruct thou so,
That I may neither _wander_, nor _mis-doe_.
My _Lookes_, my _Hearing_, and my _Wordes_ confine,
To keepe still firme, to ev’ry _Word_ of thine.
On thee, let also my _Desires_ attend:
And, let me hold this _temper_, till mine end.

_Wee then have got the surest =prop=,
When =God=, alone, becomes our =Hope=._

ILLVSTR. XXXVI. _Book. 3_]

I Should not care how hard my _Fortunes_ were,
Might still my _Hopes_ be such, as now they are,
Of helpes divine; nor feare, how poore I bee,
If thoughts, yet, present, still may bide in mee.
For, they have left assurance of such _ayd_,
That, I am of no dangers, now afraid.
Yea, now I see, mee thinkes, what weake and vaine
_Supporters_ I have sought, to helpe sustaine
My fainting heart; when some injurious hand,
Would undermine the Station where I stand.
Me thinks, I see how scurvie, and how base,
It is to scrape for favours, and for grace,
To men of earthly minds; and unto those,
Who may, perhaps, before to morrow lose
Their Wealth, (or their abus’d Authoritie)
And, stand as much in want of helpe as I.
Me thinks, in this _new-rapture_, I doe see
The hand of _God_ from heaven supporting me,
Without those _rotten-Ayds_, for which I whinde,
When I was of my tother _vulgar-minde_:
And, if in some one part of me it lay,
I, now, could cut that _Limbe_ of mine away.
Still, might I keepe this mind, there were enough
_Within_ my selfe, (beside that cumbring stuffe
Wee seeke _without_) which, husbanded aright,
Would make mee _Rich_, in all the _Worlds_ despight.
And, I have hopes, that, had shee quite bereft mee,
Of those few _ragges_ and _toyes_, which, yet, are left me;
I should on _God_, alone, so much depend,
That, I should need, nor _Wealth_, nor other _Friend_.

_True =Vertue=, firme, will alwayes bide,
By whatsoever =suffrings= tride._

ILLVSTR. XXXVII. _Book. 3_]

This is a well-knowne _Figure_, signifying,
A man, whose _Vertues_ will abide the trying:
For, by the nature of the _Diamond stone_,
(Which _Violence_, can no way worke upon)
That _Patience_, and _long-suffering_ is intended,
Which will not bee with _Injuries_ offended;
Nor yeeld to any base dejectednesse,
Although some bruising _Pow’r_, the same oppresse;
Or, such hard _streights_, as theirs, that hamm’rings feele,
Betwixt an _Anvile_, and a _Sledge_ of Steele.
None ever had a perfect _Vertue_, yet,
But, that most _Pretious-stone_, which God hath set
On his right hand, in _beaming-Majestie_,
Vpon the _Ring_ of blest _ETERNITIE_.
And, this, is that impenitrable _Stone_,
The _Serpent_ could not leave impression on,
(Nor signe of any _Path-way_) by temptations,
Or, by the pow’r of sly insinuations:
Which wondrous _Mysterie_ was of those _five_,
Whose depth King _Solomon_ could never dive.
Good _God_! vouchsafe, ev’n for that _Diamond_-sake,
That, I may of his _pretiousnesse_, partake,
In all my _Trialls_; make mee alwayes able
To bide them, with a minde impenitrable,
How hard, or oft so’ere, those _hamm’rings_ bee,
Wherewith, _Afflictions_ must _new fashion_ mee.
And, as the common _Diamonds_ polish’d are,
By their owne dust; so, let my _errours_ weare
Each other out; And, when that I am pure,
Give mee the _Lustre_, _Lord_, that will endure.

_=Truth=, oft =oppressed=, wee may see,
But, quite =supprest= it cannot bee._

ILLVSTR. XXXVIII. _Book. 3_]

This is that fruitfull _Plant_, which when it growes,
Where wholesome _Water_ in abundance flowes,
Was, by the _Psalmist_, thought a likely _Tree_,
The _Emblem_, of a _blessed-man_, to bee:
For, many wayes, it fitly typifies,
The _Righteous-man_, with his proprieties;
And, those true _Vertues_, which doe helpe increase
His growing, in the state of _Blessednesse_.
The _Palme_, (in this our _Emblem_, figur’d, thus)
Depressed with a _Stone_, doth shew to us
The pow’r of _Truth_: For, as this _Tree_ doth spread,
And thrive the more, when weights presse downe the head;
So, _Gods_ eternall _Truth_ (which all the pow’r
And spight of _Hell_, did labour to devoure)
Sprung high, and flourished the more, thereby,
When _Tyrants_ crush’d it, with their crueltie.
And, all inferiour _Truths_, the same will doe,
According as they make approaches to
The best _Perfection_; or, as they conduce
To _God’s_ due _praise_, or some such pious use.
_Lord_, still, preserve this _Truth’s_ integritie,
Although on ev’ry side, the wicked prie,
To spie how they may disadvantage it.
Yea, _Lord_, though _Sinners_ in high place doe sit,
(As _David_ saith) yet, let them not oppresse
Thy _Veritie_, by their imperiousnesse.
But, make both _Her_, and her _Professors_, bide
The _Test_, like _Silver seven times purifide_.
That, all _Truths_ lovers, may with comfort see,
Shee may _deprest_, but, not, _oppressed_ bee.

_They, who but =slowly-paced= are,
By =plodding= on, may travaile farre._

ILLVSTR. XXXIX. _Book. 3_]

The big-bon’d _Oxe_, in pace is very slow,
And, in his travaile, _step_ by _step_, doth goe,
So leisurely, as if he tir’d had bin,
Before his painfull Iourney did beginne;
Yet, all the day, he stifly ploddeth on,
Vntill the labour of the day be done:
And, seemes as fresh (though he his taske hath wrought)
As when to worke he first of all was brought.
Meane-while, the _Palfray_, which more swiftnesse had,
Hath lost his breath, or proves a _Resty-jade_.
This _Emblem_, therefore, maketh it appeare,
How much it profiteth, to _persevere_;
And, what a little _Industry_ will doe,
If wee continue _constant_ thereunto.
For, meanest _Faculties_, discreetly us’d,
May get the start, of nobler _Gifts_, abus’d.
This, may obserued be in many a one:
For (when their course of life was first begunne)
Some, whose refined _wits_, aspi’rd as high,
As if above the _Sphæres_, they were to flie:
By _Sloth_, or _Pride_, or over-trusting to
Their owne Sufficiencies, themselves undoe.
Yea and those _forward-wits_, have liv’d to see
Themselves inferiours, unto those, to be,
Whom, they did in their jollity, contemne,
As blocks, or dunces, in respect of them.
Then, learne, _Great-wits_, this folly to prevent:
Let _Meane-wits_, take from hence, incouragement:
And, let us all, in our _Affaires_ proceed,
With timely _leisure_, and with comely _speed_.

_Vncertaine, =Fortunes= Favours, bee,
And, as the =Moone=, so changeth =Shee=._

ILLVSTR. XL. _Book. 3_]

Ovr _Author_, peradventure, giveth us
Dame _Fortune_ (for these Reasons) pictur’d, thus:
_She_ hath a _Comely-body_, to declare,
How pleasing shee doth usually appeare
To them, that love her Favours. She is _blinde_,
(Or, hath still closed eyes) to put in minde,
How blindly, and how heedlesly, she throwes
Her _Largesse_, where her _Bounty_, she bestowes.
She _stands upon a Ball_; that, wee may learne,
Of outward things, the _tottering_, to discerne:
Her _Ball_ hath _wings_; that it may signifie
How apt her _Favours_ are, away to _flie_.
A _Skarfe displayed by the wind_, she beares,
(And, on her _naked-Body_, nothing weares)
To shew, that what her _Favorite_ injoyes,
Is not so much for _Vsefulnesse_, as _toyes_.
Her _Head is hairelesse, all, except before_;
To teach thee, that thy care should be the more
To hold her _formost kindnesse_, alwayes fast;
Lest, she doe show thee slipp’ry tricks, at last.
And, lastly, that her _changing_ may be showne;
She beareth in her Hand a _Wayned-moone_.
By this Description, you may now descry
Her true conditions, full as well as I:
And, if you, still, suppose her, worth such honour,
You have my leave to _wooe_, and _wayt_ upon her.
Moreover (to her credit) I confesse,
This _Motto_ falsly saith, her _Ficklenesse_
Is like the _Moones_: For, she hath frown’d on mee
Twelve _Moones_, at least; and, yet, no _Change_ I see.

_Vntill the =Steele=, the =Flint= shall smite,
It will afford nor =Heat=, nor =Light=._

ILLVSTR. XLI. _Book. 3_]

Whilst by the High-way-side, the _Flint-stone_ lies,
Drie, cold, and hardnesse, are the properties
We then perceive: But, when we prove it nigher,
We finde, that, _Coldnesse_ doth inclose a _Fire_;
And, that, though _Raine_, nor _cloudie-skie_ appeares,
It will be (many times) bedew’d with _teares_.
From hence, I mind, that many wronged are,
By being judg’d, as they, at first, appeare;
And, that, some should bee prais’d, whom wee despise,
If _inward-Grace_, were seene with _outward-Eyes_.
But, this is not that _Morall_ (wee confesse)
Which this our _Emblem_, seemeth to expresse:
For (if the _Motto_ speake the meaning right)
It shewes, that, _hard-afflictions_ first must smite
Our hardned hearts, before it will bee seene,
That any _light_ of _Grace_, in them, hath beene.
_Before the =Flint= will send forth shining Rayes,
It must bee strucken, by the =Steele=, (it sayes.)_
Another _Morall_, adde we may to this,
(Which, to the _Figure_, sutes not much amisse.)
The _Steele_, and _Flint_, may fitly represent
_Hard-hearted men_, whose mindes will not relent:
For, when in _opposition_, such become,
The _fire_ of _Malice_, flames and sparkles from
Their threatning Eyes; which else, close hidden rests,
Within the closets of their flintie brests:
And, flame out-right it will not, (though it smokes)
Till _Strife_ breake passage, for it, by her _strokes_.
If any of these _Moralls_ may doe good,
The purpose of my paines is understood.

_My _Wit_ got _Wings_, and, high had flowne;
But, _Povertie_ did keepe mee downe._

ILLVSTR. XLII. _Book. 3_]

You little thinke, what plague it is to bee,
In plight like _him_, whom pictur’d here you see.
His _winged-Arme_, and his _up-lifted-eyes_,
Declare, that hee hath _Wit_, and _Will_, to rise:
The _Stone_, which clogs his other _hand_, may show
That, _Povertie_ and _Fortune_, keepe him low:
And, twixt these _two_, the _Bodie_ and the _Mind_,
Such labours, and such great vexations finde,
That, if you did not such mens wants contemne,
You could not chuse but helpe, or pitie them.
All Ages had (and, this I know hath some),
Such men, as to this misery, doe come:
And, many of them, at their _Lot_, so grieve,
As if they knew, (or did at least beleeve)
That, had their _Wealth_ suffiz’d them to aspire
(To what their _Witts_ deserve, and they _desire_).
The present Age, and future Ages too,
Might gaine have had, from what they thought to doe.
Perhaps I dream’d so once: But, God be prais’d,
The _Clog_ which kept me downe, from being rais’d,
Was chain’d so fast, that (if such _Dreames_ I had)
My _thoughts_, and _longings_, are not now so mad.
For, plaine I see, that, had my _Fortunes_ brought
Such _Wealth_, at first, as my small _Wit_ hath sought;
I might my selfe, and others, have undone,
Instead of _Courses_, which I thought to runne.
I finde my _Povertie_, for mee was fit;
Yea, and a _Blessing_, greater than my _Wit_:
And, whether, now, I _rich_ or _poore_ become,
Tis nor much _pleasing_, nor much _troublesome_.

_A =Mischiefe=, hardly can be done,
Where =many-pow’rs= are knit in one._

ILLVSTR. XLIII. _Book. 3_]

Observe the _Sheafe of Arrowes_, figur’d here;
And, how the pow’r, and fury, of the _Beare_
(Though hee attempt it) no device can finde
To breake one _slender-shaft_, while they are _joyn’d_:
Whereas, were they _divided_, strength but small,
Like rotten Kexes, would soone breake them all.
This _Emblem_, therefore, fitly doth imply
That Safeguard, which is found in _Vnity_;
And, shewes, that, when _Dis-union_ is begunne,
It breedeth dangers, where before were none.
The _Psalmist_, numerous _Off-springs_, doth compare
To _Quivers_, that with _Shafts_ replenish’d are.
When _Vnity_ hath knit them in her _bands_,
They prove like _Arrowes_ in a _Gyants_ hands.
And, though, for these, their Foes in wayt have layd,
They shall not be supriz’d, nor made afrayd.
Consider this, yee _Children of one Sire_,
'Twixt whom, is kindled some contentious _fire_,
And, reconciled be, lest you, at length,
Consume away the marrow of your _strength_;
Or, by dividing, of your _joyned-pow’r_,
Make way for those, who studie to devoure.
Yea, let us all consider, as we ought,
What _Lesson_, by this _Emblem_, we are taught.
For, wee are _Brethren_ all; and (by a _Bloud_
More precious, then our nat’rall _Brother-hood_)
Nor knit, alone, but, mingled, as it were,
Into a _League_; which is, by much, more deare,
And, much more dangerous, to be undone,
Then all the _Bands_, that can be thought upon.

_They, best injoy their Hearts desires,
In whom, =Love=, kindles =mutuall-fires=._

ILLVSTR. XLIV. _Book. 3_]

What may the reason be, that, when Desire
Hath kindled in the brest, a _Loving-fire_,
The _Flame_, which burn’d awhile, both cleere & strong,
Becomes to be extinguished, ere long?
This _Emblem_ gives the reason; for, it showes,
That, when _Affection_, to perfection growes,
The _Fire_, which doth inlighten, first, the same,
Is made an _equall_, and a _mutuall-flame_.
These burning _Torches_, are alike in _length_;
To shew, _Love equall_, both in _time_, and _strength_.
They, to each otherward, their _Flames_ extend,
To teach us, that, _True-lovers_ have no end
Pertayning to _Selfe-love_; and, lo, betweene
These _Two_, one _Flaming-heart_, is to be seene;
To signifie, that, they, but _one_, remaine
In _Minde_; though, in their _Persons_, they are _twaine_.
He, doubtlesse, then, who _Lov’d_, and, giveth over,
Deserveth not the Title of a _Lover_;
Or, else, was unrequited in Affection,
And, was a _Lover_, with some imperfection.
For, _Love_, that loves, and is not lov’d as much,
May perfect grow; but, yet, it is not such,
Nor can be, till it may that _object_ have,
Which _gives_ a _Heart_, for what it would _receive_:
And, lookes not so much _outward_, as to heed
What seemes _within_, to _want_, or to _exceed_.
Whether our Emblem’s _Author_, thought of this,
You need not care; nor, will it be amisse,
If they who perfect _Lovers_, would be thought,
Doe mind, what by this _Morall_, they are taught.

_Where =many-Forces= joyned are,
_Vnconquerable-pow’r_, is there_

ILLVSTR. XLV. _Book. 3_]

An _Emblem’s_ meaning, here, I thought to conster;
And, this doth rather fashion out a _Monster_,
Then forme an _Hieroglyphicke_: but, I had
These _Figures_ (as you see them) ready made
By others; and, I meane to _morallize_
Their Fancies; not to mend what they devise.
Yet, peradventure, with some vulgar praise,
This _Picture_ (though I like it not) displayes
The _Morall_, which the _Motto_ doth imply;
And, thus, it may be sayd to signifie.
He, that hath many _Faculties_, or _Friends_,
To keepe him safe (or to acquire his ends)
And, fits them so; and, keepes them so together,
That, still, as readily, they ayd each other,
As if so many _Hands_, they had been made;
And, in _One-body_, usefull being had:
That man, by their Assistance, may, at length,
Attaine to an _unconquerable-strength_;
And, crowne his honest _Hopes_, with whatsoever
He seekes for, by a warranted Endeavour.
Or, else, it might be sayd; that, when we may
Make our _Affections_, and, our _Sense_, obay
The will of _Reason_, (and, so well agree,
That, we may finde them, still, at peace to be)
They’l guard us, like so many _Armed-hands_;
And, safely keepe us, whatsoere withstands.
If others thinke this _Figure_, here, inferres
A better sense; let those _Interpreters_
Vnriddle it; and, preach it where they please:
Their _Meanings_ may be good, and so are these.

_The =Hearts= of =Kings= are in =God’s= Hands;
And, as He lists, He Them commands._

ILLVSTR. XLVI. _Book. 3_]

Why doe men grudge at those, who raysed be,
By royall Favour, from a low degree?
Know this; _Hee should be honour’d, whom the King,
To place of Dignity, shall please to bring_.
Why should they blame their _Kings_, for fav’ring such,
Whom, they have thought, scarce meriting so much?
_God rules their Hearts; and, they, themselves deceive,
Who dreame, that Kings exalt, without Gods leave._
Why murmure they at _God_, for guiding so
The Hearts of _Kings_, as oft they see him doe?
Or, at his _Workes_, why should they take offence,
As if their _Wit_, could teach his _Providence_?
_His just, and his all-seeing =Wisedome= knowes,
Both =whom=, and =why= he crownes, or overthrowes;
And, =for what cause=, the Hearts of =Princes=, bee
=Inlarg’d=, or =shut=; when we no cause can see;_
We sometime know, what’s _well_, and what’s _amisse_;
But, of those _Truths_, the root concealed is;
And, False-hoods, and Uncertainties, there are,
In most of those things, which we _speake_, or _heare_.
Then, were not _Kings_ directed by _God’s_ hand,
They, who are best, and wisest in the Land,
Might oft misguide them, either by receiving
A _False report_, or, by some _wrong-believing_.
God’s _Grace_ it is, that _Good-men_ rays’d have bin:
If _Sinners_ flourish, we may thanke our _Sin_.
Both _Good_ and _Bad_, so like in _out-sides_ be,
That, _Kings_ may be deceiv’d, in what they see;
And, if _God_ had not rul’d their _Hearts_ aright,
The _World_, by this time, had been ruin’d quite.

_A =Vertue= hidden, or not us’d,
Is either =Sloth=, or =Grace= abus’d._

ILLVSTR. XLVII. _Book. 3_]

The World hath shamelesse _Boasters_, who pretend,
In sundry matters, to be skill’d so well,
That, were they pleased, so their houres to spend,
They say, they could in many things excell.
But, though they make their hearers to beleeve,
That, out of _Modestie_ their _Gifts_ they hide,
In them wee very plainely may perceive,
Or _Sloth_, or _Envy_, _Ignorance_, or _Pride_.
When other mens endeavours they peruse,
They either carpe at what they cannot mend;
Or else of Arrogance doe those accuse,
Who, to the publike view, their _Workes_ commend.
If these men say, that they can _Poetize_,
But, will not; they are false in saying so:
For, he, whose _Wit_ a little that way lies,
Will _doing_ bee, though hee himselfe _undoe_.
If they, in other _Faculties_ are learned,
And, still, forbeare their _Talents_ to imploy;
The truest _Knowledge_, yet, is undiscerned,
And, that, they merit not, which they injoy.
Yea, such as hide the _Gifts_ they have received,
(Or use them not, as well as they are able)
Are like _fayre Eyes_, of usefull sight bereaved;
Or, _lighted-Candles_, underneath a _Table_.
Their glorioust part, is but a _Painted-cloath_,
Whose _Figures_, to the wall-ward, still are hung.
Their hidden _Vertues_, are apparant _Sloth_;
And, all their life, is to the publike wrong:
For, they doe reape the _Fruits_, by many sowne,
And, leave to others, nothing of their owne.

_The =Moone=, which is =decreasing= now,
When shee =returnes=, will =fuller=, grow._

ILLVSTR. XLVIII. _Book. 3_]

I Never, yet, did murmuringly complaine,
Although those _Moones_ have long been in the _Waine_,
Which on their _Silver Shields_, my _Elders_ wore,
In _Battels_, and in _Triumphs_, heretofore.
Nor any mention have I ever made,
Of such _Eclipses_, as those _Crescents_ had;
Thereby, to move some _Comet_, to reflect
His _fading-light_, or daigne his _good-aspect_.
For, when I tell the _World_, how ill I fare,
I tell her too, how little I doe care,
For her _despights_: yea, and I tell it not,
That, helpe, or pitie, might from her be got;
But, rather, that her _Favourites_ may see,
I know my _Waynings_, yet, can pleased bee.
My _Light_, is from the Planet of the _Sunne_;
And, though the _Course_, which I obliquely runne,
Oft brings my outward _Fortunes_ to the _Waine_,
My _Light_ shall, one day, bee renew’d againe.
Yea, though to some, I quite may seeme to lose
My _Light_; because, my follies interpose
Their shadowes to eclipse it: yet, I know,
My _Crescents_, will increase, and _fuller_, grow.
Assoone as in the _Flesh_, I beeing had,
I mooved on in _Courses retrograde_,
And, thereby lost my _Splendor_: but, I feele
Soft motions, from that great _Eternall-Wheele_,
Which mooveth all things, sweetly mooving mee,
To gaine the _Place_, in which I ought to bee:
And, when to _Him_, I backe _returne_, from _whom_
At first I came, I shall at _Full_ become.

_Bee warie, =wheresoe’re=, thou bee:
For, from _deceit_, no =place= is free._

ILLVSTR. XLIX. _Book. 3_]

Some write (but, on what grounds, I cannot tell)
That they, who neere unto the _Deserts_ dwell,
Where _Elephants_ are found, doe notice take,
What trees they haunt, their sleeping-stocks to make;
That, when they rest against an halfe-sawne stemme,
It (falling) may betray those Beasts to them.
Now, though the part _Historicall_, may erre,
The _Morall_, which this _Emblem_ doth inferre,
Is overtrue; and, seemeth to imply,
The _World_ to bee so full of Treacherie,
As, that, no corner of it, found can be,
In which, from Falshoods Engines, wee are free.
I have observ’d the _Citie_; and, I finde
The _Citizens_, are civill, grave and kinde;
Yet, many are deluded by their showes,
And, cheated, when they trust in them repose.
I have been oft at _Court_; where I have spent,
Some idle time, to heare them _Complement_:
But, I have seene in _Courtiers_, such deceit,
That, for their Favours, I could never wait.
I doe frequent the _Church_; and, I have heard
Gods judgements, by the _Preachers_, there, declar’d,
Against mens falshoods; and, I gladly heare
Their zealous _Prayers_, and good _Counsells_ there;
But, as I live, I finde some such as they,
Will watch to doe a mischiefe, if they may.
Nay, those poore sneaking _Clownes_, who seeke their living,
As if they knew no manner of deceiving;
Ev’n _those_, their _witts_, can (this way) so apply,
That, they’l soone cousen, wiser men, than I.

_This =Day=, my =Houre-glasse=, forth is runne;
Thy =Torch=, to =Morrow=, may bee done._

ILLVSTR. L. _Book. 3_]

There is no Day, nor minute of the Day,
In which, there are not many sent away
From _Life_ to _Death_; or, many _drawing-on_,
Which, must within a little while, bee gone.
You, often, view the _Grave_; you, often, meet
The _Buriers_, and the _Mourners_, in the street,
Conveying of some Neighbour, to that home,
Which must, e’re long, your _dwelling-place_ become.
You see the _Race_, of many a youthfull _Sonne_
Is finish’d, e’re his _Father’s_ Course is done;
And, that, the hand of _Death_, regardeth neither
Sexe, Youth, nor Age; but, mingleth all together.
You, many times, in your owne houses, heare
The groanes of _Death_, and, view your _Children_, there,
Your loving _Parents_, or, beloved _Wives_,
To gaspe for breath, and, labour for their _lives_.
Nay, you your selves, do sometime find the paines
Of _Sicknesse_, in your Bowels, and your Vaines.
The _Harbingers_ of _Death_, sometime, begin
To take up your whole _Bodie_, for their _Inne_.
You beare their heavie _Aches_, on your back;
You feele their _twinges_, make your heartstrings crack;
And, sometime, lye imprison’d, and halfe dead,
With _Age_, or with _Diseases_, on your bed:
Yet you deferre your ends; and, still contrive,
For temp’rall things; as if you thought to live
Sixe _Ages_ longer: or, had quite forgot,
That, you, and others, draw one _common-Lot_.
But, that, you might not, still, the same forget,
This _Emblem_, and this _Motto_, here were set.

_Finis Libri tertij._

THE THIRD LOTTERIE.

1

The _Wreathes_ of GLORY, you affect,
But, _meanes_ to gaine them, you neglect;
And, (though in _doing_, you delight)
You _doe_ not, alwayes, what is _right_:
Nor are you growne, as yet, so wise,
To know, to whom the richest _Prize_
Doth appertaine; nor what it is.
But, now, you are inform’d of _This_.

See, _Emblem_ I.

2

Though you are _weake_, you much may doe,
If you will set your _Wits_ thereto.
For, meaner _Powres_, than you have had,
And, meaner _Wits_, good shift have made,
Both to contrive, and compasse that,
Which abler men have wondred at.
Your _Strength_, and _Wit_, unite, therefore,
And, both shall grow improov’d the more.

See, _Emb._ II.

3

Perhaps, thou mayst be one of them,
Who, Civill _Magistrates_ contemne;
And sleighteth, or else, flouteth at
The _Ceremonies_ of Estate.
That, thou maist, therefore, learne to get,
Both better _Manners_, and more _Wit_,
The _Sword_, and _Mace_, (by some despiz’d)
Is, for thy sake, now _moralliz’d_.

See, _Emb._ III.

4

By this thy _Lot_, wee may misdoubt,
Thou look’st not warily about;
But, hudlest onward, without heed,
What went _before_, or may _succeed_;
Procuring losse, or discontent,
Which, _Circumspection_, might prevent.
Therefore, with gratefulnesse, receive
Those counsells, which our _Moralls_ give.

See, _Emb._ IV.

5

Thou hast, unworthily, repin’d,
Or, been displeased in thy mind,
Because, thy _Fortunes_ doe not seeme
To fit thy _Worth_ (in thy esteeme:)
And loe, to check thy discontent,
Thy _Lot_, a _Morall_, doth present;
And shewes, that, if thou _vertuous_ bee,
_Good-Fortune_, will attend on thee.

See, _Emb._ V.

6

When thy Desires have good successe,
Thine owne _Endeavors_, thou dost blesse;
But, seldome unto _God_ thou giv’st
Due thanks, for that, which thou receiv’st.
Thine _Emblem_, therefore, tells from whom
The fruits of good _Endeavours_, come:
And, shewes (if thou to thrive intend)
On whom, thou, alwayes, must depend.

See, _Emb._ VI.

7

It may bee, thou art one of those,
Whose _Faith_, more _bold_, than _fruitfull_ growes;
And (building on some false _Decree_)
Disheartnest those, that _Workers_ be
To gaine (with _awfull-joy_) that _PriZe_,
Which, unto no man, _God_ denies,
That workes in _Hope_; and, lives by _Faith_.
Marke, therefore, what thine _Emblem_ saith.

See, _Emb._ VII.

8

Thou hast been willing, that thy _Name_,
Should live the life of _Honest-Fame_;
And, that, thy _labours_ (to thy praise)
Continue might, in future dayes.
Behold; the _Lot_, thou hapnest on,
Hath showne, how this may well bee done.
Pursue the _Course_, which there is taught,
And, thy desires to passe are brought.

See, _Emb._ VIII.

9

Thou, many things, hast well begun;
But, little, to good purpose, done:
Because, thou hast a fickle _braine_,
And, _hands_ that love to take no paine.
Therefore, it chanceth not amisse,
That, thou hast such a _Chance_, as this:
For, if thou want not _Grace_, or _Wit_,
Thou maist, in time, have good of it.

See, _Emb._ IX.

10

Whatev’r you seeme to others, now,
It was the _Harrow_, and the _Plough_,
By which, your _Predecessors_ got,
The fairest portion of your _Lot_:
And, (that, it may encrease your _Wit_)
They haunt you, in an _Emblem_, yet.
Peruse our _Morall_; and, perchance,
Your _Profit_, it will much advance.

See, _Emb._ X.

11

Much labour, and much time you spend,
To get an able-constant _Friend_:
But, you have ever sought him, there,
Where, no such precious _Iewells_ are:
For, you, _without_ have searching bin,
To finde, what must be found _within_.
This _Friend_, is mention’d by this _Lot_,
But, _God_ knowes where he may be got.

See, _Emb._ XI.

12

Thou seek’st for _Fame_; and, now art showne,
For what, her _Trumpet_ shall be blowne.
Thine _Emblem_, also, doth declare,
What _Fame_ they get, who _vertuous_ are,
For _Praise_ alone; and, what _Reward_,
For such like _Studies_, is prepar’d.
Peruse it; And, this _Counsell_ take;
_Bee vertuous, for meere Vertues sake_.

See, _Emb._ XII

13

This _Lot_, those persons, alwayes finds,
That have high _thoughts_, and loftie _minds_;
Or, such as have an itch to learne,
That, which doth nothing them concerne;
Or, love to peepe, with daring eyes,
Into forbidden _Mysteries_.
If any one of these thou bee,
Thine _Emblem_, lessons hath for thee.

See, _Emb._ XIII.

14

If all be true, these _Lots_ doe tell us,
Thou shouldst be of those _Fidling-fellowes_,
Who, better practised are growne,
In _others_ matters, than their _owne_:
Or, one, that covets to be thought,
A man, that’s ignorant of nought.
If it be so, thy _Morall_ showes
Thy _Folly_, and what from it flowes.

See, _Emb._ XIV.

15

Thou hast some _Charge_, (who e’re thou be)
Which, _Tendance_ may expect from thee.
And, well, perhaps, it may be fear’d,
Tis often left, without regard:
Or, that, thou dost securely sleep,
When, thou should’st watch, more strictly, keep.
Thou knowest best, if it be so:
Take therefore heed, what is to doe.

See, _Emb._ XV.

16

In secret, thou dost oft complaine,
That, thou hast _hop’d_, and _wrought_ in vaine;
And, think’st thy _Lot_, is farre more hard,
Than what for others is prepar’d.
An _Emblem_, therefore, thou hast got,
To shew, it is our _common-Lot_,
To _worke_ and _hope_; and, that, thou hast
A _Blessing_ by it, at the last.

See, _Emb._ XVI.

17

That thou hast _Honestie_, we grant;
But, _Prudence_, thou dost often want:
And, therefore, some have injur’d thee,
Who farre more _Wise_, than _honest_ bee.
That, now, _Discretion_ thou mayst add,
To those _good-meanings_ thou hast had;
The _Morall_ of thine _Emblem_, view;
And, what it counsels, that, pursue.

See, _Emb._ XVII.

18

To your _Long-home_, you nearer are,
Than you (it may bee) are aware:
Yea, and more easie is the _Way_,
Than you, perchance, conceive it may.
Lest, therefore, _Death_, should grim appeare,
And, put you in a causelesse feare;
(Or out of minding wholly passe)
This _Chance_, to you allotted was.

See, _Emb._ XVIII.

19

In slippery _Paths_, you are to goe;
Yea, they are full of danger too:
And, if you heedfull should not grow,
They’l hazzard much, your overthrow.
But, you the mischiefe may eschew,
If wholsome Counsell, you pursue.
Looke, therefore, what you may be taught,
By that, which this your _chance_ hath brought.

See, _Emb._ XIX.

20

This present _Lot_, concernes full neere,
Not you alone, but all men here;
For, all of us, too little heed
His _love_, who for our sakes, did _bleed_.
Tis true, that _meanes_, hee left behind him,
Which better teacheth how to minde him:
Yet, if wee both by _that_, and _this_,
Remember him, 'tis not amisse.

See, _Emb._ XX.

21

Tis hop’d, you just, and pious are,
More out of _Conscience_, than for feare;
And, that you’l vertuous courses take,
For _Goodnesse_, and for _Vertue-sake_.
Yet, since the best men, sometimes may
Have need of helpes, in _Vertues_ way,
Those usefull _Moralls_, sleight you not,
Which are presented by this _Lot_.

See, _Emb._ XXI.

22

This _Lot_ pertaineth unto those,
(And who they bee, _God_ onely knowes)
Who, to the world, have no desire;
But, up to heav’nly things aspire.
No doubt, but you, in some degree,
Indow’d with such _affections_ bee;
And, had this _Emblem_, that you might
Encourag’d bee, in such a _Flight_.

See, _Emb._ XXII.

23

The state of _Temp’rall_ things to shew,
Yee have them, still, within your view;
For, ev’ry object that wee see,
An _Emblem_, of them, serves to bee.
But, wee from few things, helps doe finde,
To keepe _Eternitie_ in minde.
This _Lot_, an _Emblem_ brings, therefore,
To make you thinke upon it more.

See, _Emb._ XXIII.

24

Vnlesse you better looke thereto,
_Dis-use_, and _Sloth_, will you undoe.
That, which of you despayred was,
With ease, might have bin brought to passe;
Had but so much bin done, as may
Bee equall’d with _One Line a day_.
Consider this; and, to that end,
The _Morall_ of your _Lot_ attend.

See, _Emb._ XXIV.

_M_ 25

If wee mistake not, thou art one,
Who loves to court the _Rising-Sunne_;
And, if this _Lot_, thy nature finde,
Thou to _Preferment_ hast a minde:
If so; learne hence, by whose respect
(Next God) thou mayst thy hopes effect:
Then, seeke to winn his grace to thee,
Of what estate soe’re thou bee.

See, _Emb._ XXV.

26

Thou to a _double-path_ art come;
And, peradventure, troublesome,
Thou findest it; for thee to know,
On whether hand thou oughtst to goe.
To put thee out of all suspect,
Of _Courses_ that are indirect;
Thy _Morall_ points thee to a path,
Which _hardship_, but, no perill hath.

See, _Emb._ XXVI.

27

You warned are of taking heede,
That, never, you your _Bounds_ exceed;
And, also, that you be not found,
To come within your Neighbours _Bound_.
There may be some concealed Cause,
That, none but you, this _Emblem_ drawes.
Examine it; And, If you see
A fault, let it amended be.

See, _Emb._ XXVII.

28

Your _Emblems_ morall doth declare,
When, _Lovers_ fitly matched are;
And, what the chiefest cause may be,
Why, _Friends_ and _Lovers_ disagree.
Perhaps, you somewhat thence may learne,
Which your _Affection_ doth concerne.
But, if it _Counsell_ you too late,
Then, preach it at your _Neighbours_ gate.

See, _Emb._ XXVIII.

_M_ 29

Some, vrge their _Princes_ on to _Warre_,
And weary of sweet _Peace_, they are.
Some, seeke to make them, dote on _Peace_,
(Till publike Danger more encrease)
As if the World were kept in awe,
By nothing else but preaching _Law_.
Thy _Morall_ (if of those thou art)
Doth act a _Moderators_ part.

See, _Emb._ XXIX.

30

Tis feared, thou dost lesse esteeme,
_Vpright_ to _bee_, than so to _seeme_;
And, if thine actions, faire _appeare_,
Thou carest not how foule they _are_.
Though this bee not thy fault alone,
Yet have a care of mending _One_:
And, study thou, _Vpright_ to grow,
As well in _Essence_, as in _Show_.

See, _Emb._ XXX.

31

Some, all their _time_, and _wealth_ have spent,
In giving other men content;
And, would not grudge to waste their _Blood_,
To helpe advance the _Common-good_.
To such as these, you have been thought,
Not halfe so friendly as you ought.
This _Lot_ therefore befalls, to shew,
How great _respects_, to such, are due.

See, _Emb._ XXXI.

32

You have been tempted (by your leave)
In hope of _Lucre_, to deceive:
But, much, as yet, you have not swerv’d
From _Faith_, which ought to be observ’d.
If well, hereafter, you would speed,
In _dealing-honestly_, proceed:
For, by your _Emblem_, you shall see,
That, _Honest-men_, the _richest_ bee.

See, _Emb._ XXXII.

33

We hope, no person, here, beleeves,
That, you are of those wealthy _Theeves_,
Who, _Chaines_ of gold, and pearle doe weare.
And, of those _Theeves_, that, none you are,
Which weares a _Rope_, wee, plainly see;
For, you, as yet _unhanged_ bee:
But, unto God, for _Mercie_ crie,
Else _hang’d_ you may bee, e’re you die.

See, _Emb._ XXXIII.

34

You, willing are, to put away,
The thinking on your _latter-day_:
You count the mention of it, _Folly_;
A meanes of breeding _Melancholly_;
And, newes unfit for men to heare,
Before they come to _sixtie-yeare_.
But, minde what Counsels now are sent,
And, mend, lest you too late repent.

See, _Emb._ XXXIV.

35

Your _Wits_, your _Wishes_, and your _Tongue_,
Have run the _Wild goose-chase_, too long;
And (lest all Reason, you exceed)
Of _Rules_, and _Reines_, you now have need.
A _Bridle_, therefore, and a _Square_,
Prime _Figures_, in your _Emblem_, are.
Observe their _Morall_, and I pray,
Be _Wise_, and _Sober_, if you may.

See, _Emb._ XXXV.

36

Because her _Ayd_ makes goodly showes,
You, on the _World_, your trust repose;
And, his _dependance_, you despise,
Who, meerly, on _God’s_ helpe, relies.
That, therefore, you may come to see,
How pleas’d, and safe, those men may bee,
Who have no ayd, but _God_, alone;
This _Emblem_, you have lighted on.

See, _Emb._ XXXVI.

37

Some, thinke your _Vertue_ very much;
And, there is cause to thinke it such:
For, many wayes it hath been tride;
And, well the _Triall_ doth abide.
Yet, think not, but some _brunts_ there are,
Which, your owne _strength_ shall never beare.
And, by the _Morall_ of your _Lot_,
Learne, where, _Assistance_ may bee got.

See, _Emb._ XXXVII.

38

Thou hast been grieved, and complain’d,
Because, the _Truth_ hath wrong sustain’d.
But, that, dismayd thou shouldst not be,
Thine _Emblem_ will declare to thee,
That, though the _Truth_ may suffer spite,
It shall not bee depressed quite;
But, by opposing, spread the more,
And, grow more pow’rfull than before.

See, _Emb._ XXXVIII.

39

By _Rashnesse_, thou hast often err’d,
Or, else, thou hadst been more preferr’d.
But, future errours, to prevent,
Thou to the slow-pac’d _Oxe_ art sent,
To learne more _Staydnesse_; and, to doe
Thy _Workes_, with _Perseverance_, too.
Hee that this creatures _Vertue_ scornes,
May want it all, except his _Hornes_.

See, _Emb._ XXXIX.

40

Dame _Fortunes_ favour seemes to bee
Much lov’d, and longed for, of thee;
As if, in what, her hand bestowes,
Thou mightst thy confidence repose.
But, that, her _manners_ may bee knowne,
This _Chance_, upon thee, was bestowne.
Consider well, what thou hast got,
And, on her flattrings, dote thou not.

See, _Emb._ XL.

41

The _Steele_ and _Flint_, declare, in part,
The Temper of a _Stony-heart_;
And, shewe, that thence, no _Vertue_ flowes,
Till it be forced out, with blowes.
Some other, _Moralls_ thou maist learne,
Thereby, which will thy _good_, concerne:
Marke, therefore, what they doe declare,
And, minde it, as occasions are.

See, _Emb._ XLI.

42

Thou thinkst thy _Witt_, had made thee great,
Had _Povertie_ not beene some _let_:
But, had thy _Wealth_ as ample beene,
As, thou thy _Witt_, didst overweene;
Insteed of thy desired _Height_,
Perhaps, thou hadst beene ruin’d quite.
Hereafter, therefore, be content,
With whatsoever _God_ hath sent.

See, _Emb._ XLII.

43

To _Discord_, thou art somewhat prone,
And, thinkst thou mayst subsist alone;
Regarding not how safe they bide,
Who, fast, in _Concords_ bands are tide.
But, that thou mayst the better heed,
What _Good_, from _Vnion_ doth proceed,
An _Emblem_ is become thy _Lot_,
From which, good _Caveats_ may be got.

See, _Emb._ XLIII.

44

Thou wouldst be lov’d; and, to that end,
Thou dost both _Time_, and _Labour_ spend:
But, thou expect’st (as wee beleeve)
More _Love_, than thou dost meane to give.
If so thou then, art much to blame:
For, _Love_ affects a _muturall-flame_;
Which, if it faile on either side,
Will never, long time, true abide.

See, _Emb._ XLIV.

45

If all your _pow’rs_, you should unite,
Prevaile in your Desires, you might:
And, sooner should effect your ends,
If you should muster up your _Friends_.
But, since your _Genius_ doth suspect,
That, you such _Policie_ neglect,
Your _Lot_ presenteth to your view
An _Emblem_, which instructeth you.

See, _Emb._ XLV.

46

Because, thou mayst be one of them,
Who dare the deeds of _Kings_ condemne;
(As if such eyes as theirs and yours
Could view the depth of _Sov’raigne pow’rs_;
Or, see, how in each _Time_, and _Place_,
_God_ rules their hearts, in ev’ry case.)
To check thy sawcinesse, in this,
An _Emblem_ comes not much amisse.

See, _Emb._ XLVI.

47

Of many goodly parts thou vauntst;
And, much thou hast, though much thou wantst:
But, well it were, that, lesse, thou hadst,
Vnlesse more use thereof thou mad’st.
That, therefore, thou mightst come to see,
How vaine _unpractiz’d-vertues_ bee,
Peruse thine _Emblem_; and, from thence,
Take usefull heed of thy _Offence_.

See, _Emb._ XLVII.

48

By this thy _Lot_, it may appeare,
Decayd thy _Hopes_, or _Fortunes_ are.
But, that, thou mayst no courage lose,
Thine _Emblem_, by example, showes,
That, as the _Moone_ doth from the _Waine_
Returne, and fill her _Orbe_ againe:
So, thou thy _Fortunes_ mayst renew,
If, honest _Hopes_, thou shalt pursue.

See, _Emb._ XLVIII.

49

Some _Foes_, for thee, doe lie in wait,
Where thou suspectest no _Deceit_;
Yea, many a one, thy harme intends,
Whom thou dost hope will be thy _Friends_:
Be, therefore, heedfull, whom to _trust_;
What _walke_ thou tak’st, and what thou _dost_;
For, by thine _Emblem_, thou shalt see,
That, _warinesse_, will needfull bee.

See, _Emb._ XLIX.

50

It seemes, by drawing of this _Lot_,
The day of _Death_, is much forgot;
And, that, thou needst a faithfull _Friend_,
To minde thee of thy _latter-end_.
Vnheeded, therefore, passe not by,
What now thine _Emblem_ doth imply;
So, thou shalt heare (without affright)
_Death’s_ message, though it were to night.

See, _Emb._ L.

51

Thou seek’st by fickle _Chance_, to gaine,
What thou by _Vertue_ might’st attaine.
Endeavour well, and, nothing shall
To thee, unfortunately fall:
For, ev’ry variable _Chance_,
Thy firme contentment, shall advance.
But, if thou, yet, remaine in doubt,
Turne _Fortunes-wheele_, once more, about.

52

Thy _Lot_, no Answere will bestow,
To that, which thou desir’st to know;
Nor canst thou, here, an _Emblem_ find,
Which to thy purpose is inclinde.
Perhaps, it is too late to crave,
What thou desirest, now, to have:
Or, but in vaine, to mention that,
Which thy _Ambition_ aymeth at.
Then, take it not in evill part,
That, with a _Blanck_, thou answer’d art.

53

Although you now refused not,
To trie the _Fortune_ of your _Lot_;
Yet, you, perhaps, unwilling are,
This company the same should heare,
Lest, some harsh _Morall_ should unfold
Such tricks, as you could wish untold.
But, loe, you need not stand in awe;
For, 'tis a _Blanck_, which now you draw.

54

It proves a _Blanck_; for, to what end,
Should wee a serious _Morall_ spend,
Where, _teachings_, _warnings_, and _advise_,
Esteemed are of little price?
Your onely purpose, is to looke
Upon the _Pictures_ of this _Booke_;
When, more discretion you have got,
An _Emblem_ shall attend your _Lot_.

55

You might have drawne an _Emblem_, here,
In which your _manners_ pictur’d were:
But, some will vexe, when they shall see
Themselves, so painted out to bee,
And, blame this _Booke_, as if it had
By some unlawfull _Art_ been made:
(Or, was contriv’d, that, to their shame,
Men, on themselves, might _Libels_ frame)
And, lest you may bee so unwise,
Your _Lot_, an _Emblem_, now, denies.

56

Because, _Good Chances_, others drew,
To trie these _Lots_, it pleased you.
But, had you such an _Emblem_ found,
As fits you rightly, you had froun’d;
Or, _inwardly_, you would have _chast_,
Although you _outwardly_ had laugh’d.
You, therefore, very glad may bee,
This proves a _Blanck_; and, so may wee.

_FINIS._

A
COLLECTION
OF
EMBLEMES,
ANCIENT AND
MODERNE:

Quickened
With METRICALL ILLVSTRATIONS, both
_Morall_ and _Divine_: And disposed into
LOTTERIES,

That _Jnstruction_, and _Good Counsell_, may bee furthered
by an Honest and Pleasant _Recreation_.

_By_ GEORGE WITHER.

_The fourth Booke._

LONDON,
Printed by AVGVSTINE MATHEWES.
MDCXXXIV.

_=TO
THE RIGHT HONOVRABLE=
PHILLIP, _Earle of_ PEMBROOKE, and
MOVNTGOMERIE, &c. Lord =Chamberlaine= of the
Houshould, =Knight= of the most honourable Order of
the =Garter=, and one of his =Majesties= most Honourable
=Privie-Councell=._

_My Honourable_ LORD,