Tales and Novels of J. de La Fontaine — Volume 05 by Jean de La Fontaine
page 16 of 30 (53%)
page 16 of 30 (53%)
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OF'T what we would not, we're obliged to do, When fate our steps with rigour will pursue. No folly greater than to heighten pain, When we are sensible relief is vain. What she, through pity, to another gave, Might well be granted when herself 'twould save. AT length she yielded to this suitor rude:-- No grief so great, but what may be subdued. 'Twould in the pirate doubtless have been wise, The belle to move, and thus prevent surprise; But who, from folly in amours is free? The god of love and wisdom ne'er agree. WHILE our gay pirate thought himself at ease, The wind quite fair to sail when he might please, Dame Fortune, sleepy only while we wake, And slily watching when repose we take, Contrived a trick the cunning knave to play, And this was put in force ere break of day. A LORD, the owner of a neighb'ring seat, Unmarried;--fond of what was nice and neat, Without attachment, and devoid of care, Save something new to meet among the FAIR; Grew tired of those he long around had viewed, Now constantly, in thought, our belle pursued. He'd money, friends, and credit all his days, And could two thousand men at pleasure raise: |
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