Licensed,
January 3d. 1686/7.
R. M.
Prolusiones Poëticae.
POËTICAL ESSAYS.
LONDON, Printed in the Year 1687.
THE EPISTLE TO THE READER.
THough I could, as well as others, have Graced this Piece with some Great Man's Name in the Front; yet [Page] I have rather Chosen to give the World a Freedom of Ʋnprepossed Censuring, by not so much as putting my own Name to it; Which will crush Partiality in the Egg; Whilst every one neither Liking nor Misliking the Author, as not Knowing him, will consider the Piece as Men do a Forreigner, whose Extract they are Ignorant of, Judging of him either to his Advantage or Disadvange by no other Rule, than what his Personal Actions set before them.
As to my Love-Toys, Reader, Thou hast the like Freedom [Page] of Thinking, what was the Moving Cause of my making them: Whether it were my being Engaged in that Passion, the Entreaty of Others, or only for a Divertisement of my Poetical Fancy. Only, Ladies, if this Trifle of a Book happen to fall into your Fair Hands; In Requital of the Honour you will do it, in vouchsafing to Read it, I Reckon my Self Obliged in Civility to make this True Apologie, in Reference to that against Marriage; That it was made at the Request of one of your own Sex, who was that way Disposed. But if this small Piece be so Favourably Received, as to [Page] require a Second Impression, you shall then find it sufficiently Answered.
I might have scattered up and down those Toyes (according to the Example of Almost all my Predecessors in Poetry) Wit and Fancy, taken from the Scripture, which would perhaps have render'd them more Acceptable to some Readers. But this Fault (if it be one) I Designedly committed, Esteeming that Sacred Volume worthy of a Greater Veneration, than to be Quoted upon every Frivolous Occasion. Those that follow other Poets in that point, [Page] may perhaps raise their Credit amongst Loose VVits; but, I believe, will hardly be counted Religious by Sober Men: For all Grant that it is Dangerous, Ludere cum Sacris.
As to my Translations, whether I have taken too much, or too little Liberty, I shall submit my self to the Judgement of those Learned, that shall reckon it worth their while to compare them with their Originals.
I have nothing Remaining, Reader, but only to beg thy Candor and Charity for what Mistakes [Page] may have escaped Ʋnseen by me; And to wish Thee as much pleasure in thc Reading, as I had in the making of these following Essays of Poetry.
Mart. LIB. V. Quae mihi Praestiteris, &c.
HOW you've oblig'd me, I remember well,
Yet I don't speak, because you do it tell;
As oft as I to any one begin
To speak; He says, I heard the same of him.
Two do not all things well; One's best for this;
If you would have me speak, hold you your peace.
The greatest kindnesses are rendred small
When by the Doer they are told to all.
Mart. LIB. V. Cras tu Virtutum, &c.
ALways, to Morrow you will live you say,
VVhen cometh this to Morrow, tell me, pray.
How far is't off? Or where is't to be found?
Is't i'th' Armeni'n, or the Parthi'n ground?
Than Priamus, or Nestor 'tis more old,
Pray tell me for how much is't to be sold?
You'l live to Morrow; But too late's to day,
He is the VVise Man, that liv'd yesterday.
Mart. LIB. VI. Scis te Captari; &c.
YOU know, you're sought to be entrapt, you know
VVho 'tis, and also what he means too;
Yet you, poor Fool, have put him in your VVill,
And would have him your Vacant Room to fill.
'Tis true he sent you Gifts; but for a Bait:
Can the Fish love the Fisher which does wait
But for his Life? Can's Tears and Heart consent,
But leave him nothing, he'l indeed lament.
In Pavonem.
Quae volucris toto Caelestior Orbe videtur,
Quàm qui delectat Junonis Gemmeus Ales?
Astra gerit caudâ, veluti signantia sedem,
Quâ Domina ipsius sedet, & Regina Dearum.
The Ʋnhapppy.
LET Base and Sordid Souls for Riches Love,
Compleat Felicity let others move.
My Love's more Gen'rous, and my thoughts more brave,
'Tis one unhappy I desire to have.
Then if my Lot be hard and Fortune frown,
'Tis but the same, which she before has known;
She only keeps in the same tiresome Rode,
VVhich she before with Pati'nce long had trod.
I'le bear a part with her, and she'le with me,
And in Unhappiness we'le happy be.
Our mutual Love shall baffle our cross Fate,
And we'le, in spight of Fortune, Love in State.
But if my Prosp'rous days are yet behind,
And my Good Fate lingers to be more kind;
She then shall know how Gen'rous I have been,
And what my Noble thoughts at first did mean.
Absence.
And art thou gone my Dear? And did we part?
No, for Thou taken hast with thee my Heart.
Another.
Oh! when wilt thou return? My Dear, Oh! when?
VVhen shall I have thee in my Arms again?
Thy kind Embraces when shall I receive?
My kind Embraces when shall I thee give?
How long is yet to come? Oh! Lingring Sun,
How sluggishly dost thou thy Races run?
Entwin'd in thy Dear Arms, Oh! when shall I
Repose my self a while, and learn to dye?
Forget this busie VVorld, and all it's Care?
Enjoy my self and Thee, and nothing fear?
On the sweet Pillow of thy Arms I'de rest
From all my Troubles, all my Cares Releast.
Both in Love.
VVelcome, kind Cupid, now thy Joys I have,
There's nothing but's too small for me to crave.
Now thou hast pair'd our Hearts, what would I more!
Possess'd of my Love's Heart, I can't be Poor.
Clasp'd in my Love's kind Arms, I'le strait forget
The Injuries of Fate, though ne're so great.
Those kind Embraces shall my Lethe be,
And wash out all the Tracks of Misery.
Toss'd on the Billows of Cross Fortune, here
I'le Land, and neither Storm, nor Tempest fear.
Here Ravish't with Delight I'le stay, and none
VVill Envy, not the Prince o'th' Richest Throne.
Not Fair.
Not Features of the Face, but of the Mind;
To be the Loadstone of my Love I find.
Those Fading Features which the Skin may have,
VVhen I but close my Eyes still find a Grave.
Each night in Youth, they vanish quite away,
Until the Candle come, or else the day:
But when Age comes, nor Day, nor Candle light
Can Represent those Features to my Sight.
Give me those Lasting ones, from which nor Age,
[...]or Darksome night, my Love can Disengage;
That Flourish still and watered are by time,
[...]nd never, till old Age, come to their Prime.
Fast and Lose.
Thus Tantalus by Apples Courted is,
[...]nd when he seeks them not, the VVaters Kiss
His Lips: But when he stoops and would them take;
Then, like Coy Dames, all haste from him they make.
They will, and yet they will not, still Refuse
VVhat, if their Hearts might speak, they'd soonest chuse.
The Parting.
[...]arewell, My Unconstant, My Dearest Unkind,
[...]le alter my Love, since Thou dost Thy Mind.
Could'st thou but have lov'd me, I would have lov'd thee,
[...]nd my Love should have rose to the highest Degree
[...] Husband more loving there should none have been,
Nor shouldst thou've repented what e're thou hadst seen.
The love betwixt others should have made thee to say,
This differs from Ours, as Night does from Day.
[...]ut since thou'lt be gone, I wish thee good speed,
[...]nd from my Addresses thou shalt be quite freed.
Tis in vain to Court shadows that vanish away,
Or a Mistress pursue, that no where will stay.
[...]f thou lov'st a Second, a Second I'le chuse;
[...]nd a Third, if that Second, like thee, does me use;
[...] Fourth shall succeed, if the Third prove Unkind;
[...] Fifth and a Sixth, till one constant I find.
[...]f none Constant I find, Adieu to Fond Love,
[...]et still I'le Caress them, and a Courtier I'le Prove:
I'le use them as Play-things to drive time away,
VVhen I at my Studies or Business can't stay.
Against Marriage.
Come, Darling Chastity! Avant, Fond Love,
VVhich only do'st t' unsettled Persons prove
A seeming Pleasure; For thou seem'st to be,
VVhat none could ever truly find in thee.
As silly Idle Children often long
For that 'bout which the Bees in Crouds do throng,
Attempt the Hive and find some Honey there,
But of those Stings which guarded them, they bear
The Marks much longer than the Sweets do last,
The Stings remain after the Taste is past.
So those who love pursue, acquire short Joy,
But with it Cares, which still their rest annoy.
Those Golden Apples hanging on Love's Tree,
By watchful, fiery Dragons Guarded be;
Some reaching at them, sorely wounded are,
And then retire possest with lasting fear;
Others who've reacht, and have the Fruit secur'd,
Retiring have the Dragon's rage endur'd;
VVounds never-curable they've born away
VVith their much-fanci'd, but dear-gotten prey.
Courtship is tedi'us, flattering, and cloys
VVith it's Impertinence and childish toys.
Too starcht and formal, where no Freedom is,
And each slight Acti'n censur'd is amiss.
All things are acted which it's thought may please,
Though counterfeited with but little Ease.
The Marriage-Bed is Deck'd with Jealous weeds;
Tuck'd up with Careful Troubles thorny Reeds.
Loss and Misfortunes hang the Chamber round,
And Brittle Slipp'ry Ice makes up the Ground.
These things with Reason me from Love Affright,
My Day is Pleasant, Untiresom's my Night:
Uninterrupted Sleeps all Night I take,
No Children's Cryes, or Carking Cares me wake.
I'm Uncontroul'd as to my Main Concern,
The Lesson of Misfortune I can Learn
At a much Cheaper Rate, now I'me Alone,
Than if I'd other selves that I must Mone.
My Better Fortunes will much Sweeter taste,
Their pleasant Springs too will much longer last,
Than if more hands were to exhaust the Store,
Or many Mouths were to taste them before:
The Sun's contracted Beams i'th' Burning-glass
Are hotter far, than in a w [...]der place.
If one place please me not, I'le move from thence
Unto some other, with a small expence.
Without those parting Pangs which Lovers know,
When from each other they are forc'd to go:
Without those Troubles, ted'ous Trains attend,
And in less time, than Families must spend.
My Private Thoughts I'le to my self Rehearse,
And Breath my Meditations out in Verse.
My Vacancies I'le spend in Thoughts Divine,
Such they shall be, Lord, as agree with Thine:
Thou'lt not despise, thou'lt still receive my Pray'r,
VVhilst I'm on Earth, my Voice shall pierce the Air;
Mount up to Heav'n, and there secure a Friend,
That in all straits will Succour to me send.
And thus secur'd, I'le spend my peaceful Days,
And still set forth my Great Protector's Praise.
I'le scorn this Lump of Earth, this busie Hive,
VVhere Men so eagerly for Riches strive;
Give me but Food and Rayment, I'm Content,
Let others Rafters with their Gold be Bent.
Thus I'le expect until thou sendest Death,
And then I'le willingly resign my Breath.
LEANDER TO HERO: Out of Ovid's Epistles.
The ARGUMENT.
The Hellespont (that is the Sea of Helle, so called from Helle, Phryxus's Sister, who was drowned in it) dividing Europe and Asia, had Sestos (the City where Hero lived) and Abydos in Asia (where Leander lived) opposite to each other upon the two Shores, where it being not above seven or eight Furlongs broad, Leander used to swim over by night to Hero, and return in the morning: But being hindered for some days from swimming by a violent Storm, he sends her this Letter. But the Storms continuing, made him venture to swim through it, where he was Drowned.
WHat he had rather bring, Leander sends,
Health to his Love. Oh that the VVa [...]es were friends!
By the Good Gods if my Love favour'd be,
These Lines Unwelcome will be thought by thee.
They don't it favour. VVhy do they me stay?
VVhy through the waves, do they shut up my way?
Thou seest the Gloomy Heav'n, and stormy VVave,
To pass which, Seamen scarce the Courage have.
This one Bold Bearer durst out-brave the VVinds,
Looses from Harbor, brings to Thee my Lines.
I'was taking Ship, but as he was about
To weigh his Anchor, all the Town lookt out.
I could not have conceal'd my Parents still,
Our Love had been disclos'd against our VVill.
Then said I writing, Happy Letter go,
The touch of her Fair Hand thou soon wilt know.
Perhaps her Coral Lips too thou mayst Kiss,
VVhil'st with her Teeth thy Seal she op'ning is.
Thus briefly to my self I muttered,
The rest my right hand to the Paper said.
Oh that for writing, it were swimming now!
And me the VVatry Rode were carr'ing through!
'Twere fitter with it in the VVaves to Row,
'Tis fit to speak, since it my Mind does know.
For sev'n whole nights, long as a tedi'us Year,
Upon this angry Sea's brows frowns appear:
All which long time, if I have slept at all,
May the Sea's stormy Rage still cease to fall.
Sad on some Rock I sit and view the Shore,
And send my Mind, though not my Body or'e.
My Pole-star in the Tow'r, thy Candle too,
I either see indeed, or think I do.
Thrice stript, my Cloths I on the Bank had laid;
Thrice to go through the VVaters I essay'd;
Thrice my Attempts were by the Sea withstood;
Thrice swimming I was plung'd into the Flood.
Of the fierce VVinds, O thou the fiercest far,
VVhat makes thee against me thus raise a VVar?
'Gainst me, and not the Seas thy Rage is mov'd,
VVhat wouldst thou do, alas! hadst thou not lov'd?
Though thou'rt so cold, yet canst thou not deny,
That with Actaean Flames thou once didst fry,
In thy carreer to love, should any set
A stop, how would'st thou bear that tedi'us Let?
Spare then thy Rage, let thy Gales gently blow:
No hard commands from Eolus mayst thou know.
My Pray'rs are vain, Bor'as still murmureth,
Of the fierce VVinds there ceaseth not one Breath.
Lend me thy wings, O Dedalus to fly,
I care not though thy Sons Fate be hard by,
I'le stand the Danger, so I may but be
There through the Air, whither I went by Sea.
But whilst the VVinds and Seas thus envious prove,
VVith pleasure I think over my past Love.
'Twas young night, when I came forth to thee, Dear;
('Tis pleasure, past Joys in the Mind to bear)
Strait I put off with my Clothes sluggish Fear,
And my Brisk Arms my Body up did bear.
The kind Moon shone to me as light as day,
And bore me Company through all the way.
VVith lift-up eyes, said I, to me be kind,
And let thy Latmi'n Loves possess thy Mind.
Endymi'n will not let thee be severe,
Assist me then in the Course that I steer.
A Mortal did thy Divine Passi'n move,
(Let me speak Truth) a Goddess 'tis, I love.
[...]'le pass by the perfecti'ns of her Mind:
Such Beautie's never but in shapes Divine.
Her Face is next to Venus's, after thee,
Credit thou not my words, thy self may'st see.
As much as from all Stars thou win'st the Bays,
VVhen thou shin'st forth with thy pure silver Rayes;
So much excell'd by Her, all Beauties be;
VVhich if thou doubt'st, Cynthia, thou canst not see.
These, or words like these, as I swam I spake,
And through the yielding waves my way I brake.
The moving waves shone with reflected Rayes,
The Light that Night was equal with the Day's.
No noise at all unto my Ears did come,
But of my moving Body as I swoom.
For Ceyx's Love the King's Fishers alone,
Methoughts, sung to me a Melodi'us mone.
My Arms be'ng weari'd with the strokes they gave,
I briskly perch'd my Head above the wave;
Seeing thy Light, I said, Yonder's my Fire,
That distant shore contains all I desire.
My former strength return'd to my tir'd Arms,
And the smooth'd waves seem'd to be bound with Charms.
Love caus'd that I the waters Cold felt not;
Love, which possess'd my Active Breast so hot.
The nearer I approach, and come to shore,
The less the way's to go, my Strength is more.
VVhen I see thee, Thy Presence does Revive
My drooping Spirits, and thou mak'st me Live.
And now I swim Genteelely, thee to please,
And in thy Sight move on with Graceful Ease.
Out of the Sea thy Nurse could scarce keep thee:
(Thy words deceiv'd me not) This I did see.
Nor could she do, what she to do did think,
Thy tender Foot was wet in the Sea's Brink.
Embraces then, and Kisses me employ,
VVhich o're the Seas fetcht, Gods to have might joy.
To cover me, thy shoulders thou mak'st bare,
And Lovingly dryest my Sea-wet Hair.
The rest VVe, and the Consci'us Tow'r best know,
And that kind Light which me the way did show:
The Joys of that Night if you number can,
Then you may count the Waves too of the Main.
And as our time grew short for sport, so we
Took care, that short time should not Idle be.
The pleasant Night is almost at an end,
And the bright Morning the Day-star does send.
In haste we huddle Kisses whilst I stay,
Whilst we complain that the Nights fly away.
But whilst I linger thus, the Nurse calls me
From thy Lov'd Chamber to the hated Sea.
VVe weeping part; and I to Sea again,
Still looking back upon thee, whilst I can.
I coming do a Swimmer seem to be,
Methinks I'm shipwrackt coming home from thee.
This too is true; the way to thee's down Hill,
VVhich to ascend from thee does almost kill.
Homewards I heavy go, who can't believe?
And 'cause I stay now's that, for which I strive.
Alas! why joyn'd in mind doth th' Sea Us part?
VVhy has not one Land Us two, One in Heart?
Come thou to mine, or else take me to thine;
I as well thine do like, as thou dost mine.
VVhy must my pleasure on the Sea depend?
VVhy cease my joys when the winds do't befriend?
The Dolphins know our loves; the Fishes too,
As oft as I the waters pass, me know.
A perfect Path through the waves may be seen,
As ways which by Cart-wheels have oft prest been.
'Cause no way else was, I did once complain,
But now for want of this I live in pain.
The Virgin's Sea with waves does proudly swell,
The Ships scarce safely in the Harbors dwell.
When this sea did from Helle it's name take,
Such billows, I believe, the winds did make.
'Tis Infamous enough since Helle tost,
And though it drown not me, it's Credit's lost.
I envy Phryxus, whom through troubled Seas,
The Golden Ram carri'd upon his Fleece.
I scorn the help of either Ship or Ram,
Give me but smoother waves, that may be swam.
I need no Art; let me but swim the Sea.
I Marriner, Ship, Passenger will be.
Nor by the greater or the lesser Bear,
Or any Publick Stars will my Love steer.
Let Ariadne and Andromeda,
And cold Calisto shew Seamen their way.
These Perseus, Bacchus and Great Jove did please,
But for my Guides, I will have none of these.
I have a better and much surer light,
VVhose Guidance ne're will shew my love the Night.
By 't's Light to Colchos and the utmost Seas,
And where the Argo went, I'le go with Ease.
I'le Ino's Son in swimming far surpass,
And Glaucus too made a God by the Grass.
My Arms through Moti'n often weary grow,
Scarce can I make them through the water go.
VVhen, I say, your Rewards great, and them Check,
I'le fold you strait about my Mistress's Neck.
Strait they revive, and make to thee apace,
As a swift Horse running i'th' Eli'n Race.
Close to my self I'le keep my burning Love,
Still I'le love thee, who'rt fit for Heav'n above.
Thou'rt fit for Heav'n indeed, but on Earth stay,
Or else unto the Gods shew me the way.
Here 'tis that I shall see thee, though not oft,
My Mind's disturb'd when the Seas mount aloft.
If the broad Oc'an did us separate,
Now this Flood does, the same would be our state.
It were as Good, I think, Remov'd I were
At farthest distance from my Hope and Dear.
The nearer thou'rt, the hotter Flame I find,
My Joy is not, my Hope's still in my Mind.
So near I am, I almost touch my Love,
This thought, Alas! does my tears often move.
In wishing, I at Bobbing Apples snatch,
And at retiring waves in vain I catch.
My having thee, must the VVaves alwayes Curb?
Nor happy be, when VVinds the Flood Disturb?
Since nought's less constant, than the VVind and Sea;
On them must my Hope still dependant be?
The storm continues, and the Sea makes VVars,
VVhat will the Pleias, Bear and Goaty Stars?
How Bold I am, I know not; or else me
My Love shall send through the tempest'ous Sea.
For a long time, think not, I promise make,
Speedy performance shall that Bond up take.
If this storm lasteth but a few nights more,
Through the unwilling waves I'le seek thy shore.
Or Happy Fortune shall my Boldness Crown,
Or VVelcom Death my troubled Love shall drown.
I'le wish though to be cast upon thy shore,
And may my shipwrack't Limbs come thee before.
Thou'lt weep perhaps, and my dead Body touch,
And say, for me he suffer'd has thus much.
The Omen of my Death does thee Displease,
And thou these sad Lines read'st with little Ease.
Complain not, but to Quench this angry Fire,
Let both our wishes happily conspire.
I need a short Calm now, to swim to thee,
VVhen I'm got there, let the storms lasting be.
There safely in the Port my Barque shall ride,
In no place safer, that it ever try'd.
Let Bor'as shut me there, I'le freely stay;
Then I'le be cauti'us, then I will delay.
On the deaf waves then I'le not rail in vain,
Nor of the Sea's tempest'ousness complain.
There let the winds, and thy soft Arms me keep,
Let with these Causes, I'le still with thee sleep.
VVhen the storm's laid, in haste I'le swim to thee,
Still let the Candle in thy window be.
Mean time this Letter may my place supply,
My wishes are, that follow soon may I.
HERO'S ANSWER.
THE Health thou sent'st, Leander, I did read,
But prithee come, that I may hav't indeed.
Delays are ted'ous, which Our Joys deferre,
My Ard [...]nt Love confest, to blame forbear.
Our Flame is equal, but my Strength is less:
Men's Natures are more fit for hardiness.
Our Minds and Bodies too much tend'rer are,
A small Delay will me quite kill, I fear.
You Men or Hunt, or else the Ground do till;
Thus you your vacant time with Pleasure fill.
Or th' Forum, or the Wrestling busie you,
Or Noble Races with swift Steeds pursue;
Or Fowls with Gins you catch, or Fish with Lines;
Or wash away your cares with Gen'rous Wines.
These things from Women Nature does remove,
And we have nothing else to do, but Love.
And this is all, My Joy, that I can do,
I love much more, than can be thought by you,
Sometimes I whisper with my Nurse of thee,
Wondring what of thy stay the Cause may be.
Or looking on the Sea, I chide the VVind
VVith Angry words almost the same as thine.
But when I see a Calm upon the Main,
That thou can'st come, but wilt not, I complain.
As I complain, my tears fall down apace,
Which my kind Nurse wipes from my Blubber'd Face.
Whether thy tracks are in the shore I look;
As though the Sand kept the Marks in her Book.
That I may write, or know what is thy Health;
Of ev'ry Passenger, I ask by stealth.
How often do I kiss those Clothes, which thou
Put'st off, when thou to swim the Sea dost go!
So when day's spent, and friendly Night is near,
And the bright-shining Stars i'th' Sky appear;
In the high Tow'r my watchful Tapers stand,
My wonted Light to Guide thee to the Land.
With busie hands the Distaft Flax we spin,
The time with work we to deceive begin.
What is my talk, if thou desir'st to know,
Nought but thy sweet Name through my Lips does go.
Thus speak I, Nurse, dost think my Love's come out?
Or fears he, 'cause Men walking are about?
Is he by this time quite undrest, dost think?
Anointed is he gotten to the Brink?
She Nods, not that Our Joys she minds indeed,
But drowsie sleep seizes her aged Head.
Strait, sure, say I, now swimming is my Love,
And his Brisk Arms the yielding waters move.
When a few Threads spun lye upon the Floor,
I ask, whether the way to swim, or swoom, be more?
Then looking out, with tim'rous words I pray,
That the kind Gales may give thee a good way.
Sometimes we hearken wistly, and each Noise
We hear, we think to be thy coming voice.
And after mid-night whilst I watch still keep,
My weari'd eyes are often seiz'd by sleep.
Perhaps against thy will thou sleep'st with me,
And, though thou would not come, thee here I see.
Sometimes, methinks, I see thee swimming on,
And thy wet Arms my shoulders hang upon.
Sometimes I cloth thee coming from the Deep,
And thy wet Body in my Arms hug'd keep.
Much more too, which a modest Tongue won't name,
Which to do pleases, done to speak were shame.
This pleasure's short, Alas! nor is it true,
For with my sleep from me away go you.
More solid pleasures let our loves Employ,
Nor let our flatt'ring Dreams be all our Joy,
So many Widow'd Nights why have I spent?
Absent to be so long, what's thy intent?
The Sea has, I confess, been very rough;
But yesternight 'twas almost smooth enough.
Why was that lost? why didst not fear delay?
In such a Calm, why didst not come away?
Though a like calm return, to let thee pass,
Because 'twas first, yet that much better was.
Thou'lt say, soon change the short smiles of the Sea,
But sooner much thou'st often come to me.
Detain'd by Tempest here, thou'lt find no harms;
No storm shall hurt thee clasp'd within my Arms.
The wrangling Winds with their storms would me please,
Nor would I ever wish their Jars should cease.
But why do the waves now affrighten thee,
Who not long since didst so despise the Sea?
Time was, when Tempests, which the Sea did Toss;
As bad almost, could not thy visits Cross.
Whilst still I cry'd, Prithee, be not too bold,
Let not thy daring make my heart quite cold.
Whence is this Fear? whether's thy boldness fled?
Is the great Courage of our swimmer Dead?
Be rather thus, than as thou us'st to be,
Nor move thy Arms, but through a quiet Sea.
But change not, but continue still the same,
Nor to cold Ashes turn thy loving flame.
So much I don't fear the delays o'th'wind,
As least thy wandring love should change thy Mind.
And I be thought not worth the seeing now,
Nor a good Cause, why thou the waves should'st plough,
Sometimes I fear, my Country's thought too mean,
And I an unfit Match for'n Abydene.
There's nothing can so soon my Pati'nce move,
As thy Delaying for a Rival Love:
Or if Another's Arms thy Neck entwine,
And a new Love should cause the End of mine
Ah! sooner let me dye, than feel this wound:
Come, Death, e're Guilty of this Fault thou'rt found.
Not 'cause thou'st giv'n suspiti'n, this do'I name,
Or prompted on by a new-broached Fame.
But ev'ry thing I fear, as Lovers do,
Distance and Absence are strong Motives too.
Happy are those, who by their Presence are
Spectators of true Crimes and false don't fear.
Absent we are disturb'd by false and true,
Us each unhappy Error does undo.
Oh! that thou'ldst come to me; not Wind, I fear,
Or Father, but some Mistress keeps thee there.
When this I know, soon dye with Grief shall I;
Thou'rt too unkind, if thou would'st have me dye.
Thou'rt not unkind: and I am vex'd in vain,
The Blustring Winds thy coming do restrain,
How fiercely do the Billows the shores beat!
How do the clouds us of the clear day Cheat!
Now
Helle's Mother.
Nephele perhaps i'th' Sea appears.And laments Helle drown'd with flouds of tears.
Or else the Sea hated, 'cause nam'd from her.
The Goddess Ino raging, thus does stir.
This raging Sea never on VVomen smil'd,
This Helle drown'd, this shall my Bane be stil'd.
If, Neptune, of thy love thou mindful wast,
No love should e're complain of a Rough Blast.
Nor Amymone, nor fair Tyro are
Only feign'd stories of thy loving Care.
Thou fair Alcione, Antone too,
And lovely Ceyce did'st more than woo,
And fair Medusa with her Golden Hair,
Before to hissing Snakes they turned were.
Laodice, Heav'nly Celaeno too,
And many more, whose Names I well do know.
The Poets sing many more loves of thine,
VVith whom love's pleasing Charms did thee entwine.
VVhy dost thou then, who know'st love does not play,
Now with thy storms shut up our Anti'ent way?
Cease, cruel Neptune, and disturb the Sea,
By this small Brook our Lands divided be.
Great You, should mighty floating Castles toss.
And make whole Fleets for fear be at a loss.
Neptune should scorn a young man thus to fear,
To disturb Lakes as glorious it were.
He's Nobly born, but he did not arise
From that Ʋlysses, whom thou didst despise.
Pardon, save two, he only swimmeth there,
His Body and my Hopes together are.
Just now the Candle (for by it I write)
Did sputter, and sent forth propiti'us light.
My Nurse powr'd VVine i'th' Fire out of the Cup,
VVe shall be more, then drinks the Remnant up.
Make us more then, thy swimming Journey make,
VVho the Possessi'n of my Heart dost take.
Return, Deserter of thy Love, O why
In my Forsaken Bed alone lie I?
Fear not, for Sea-born Venus will help thee,
And smooth thy beaten Road in the rough sea,
Oft through the waters I have coming been,
But that it has been kinder unto Men.
For why when Phryxus and his Sister came
Hither, did she Alone give it a Name?
Tiring in your Return perhaps you fear,
Nor that you could this double Burden bear.
In the midst of the waters let us meet,
And there let's give each other Kisses sweet.
Then home again let's both depart from sea,
This little will, than nothing better be.
Which makes us love in stealth, would either shame,
Or fearful Love would once abandon Fame.
Now love and shame ill-joyn'd cannot Agree,
This pleases others, but that pleases me.
When Greci'n Jason into Colchos came,
Medea to ship off, he thought no shame.
When Trojan Paris to Greece made his way,
He soon returned with his gotten Prey.
Thou often visit'st me, as oft dost leave,
And swim'st, when ships their sailing do Reprieve.
Yet, Conqu'ror of the Waves, my only Dear,
Them both despise, and prudently them fear.
The strong-wrought ships to pieces torn they Drink,
And can thy Arms do more than Oars dost think?
What thou desir'st, that Seamen fear to do,
Shipwrackt they are, who are so bold to go.
Whilst I perswade thee thus, I my self wrong,
Than these my Arguments be thou more strong.
But prithee, come, through the Waves make thy way,
And thy tir'd Arms upon my shoulders lay.
But, Oh! as oft as I look on the Sea,
I know not what cold chilness seizes me.
Nor less did Dreams me terrifie last night,
Though I with Victims have Aton'd that Fright.
For towards morning, when my Lamp went out,
The time when truest Dreams do walk about.
The threads out of my Fingers found their way,
And I my Head did on a Pillow lay.
Here comes a Dolphin swimming in the Main,
And so exact, I nought have seen more plain.
Whom when the Raging Waves cast on the Sand,
Both Waves and Life left him Dead on the Land.
The Omen's bad, do not my Dream despise,
Nor venture in the Sea, whilst the Waves rise.
If not thy self, yet prithee, Love, spare me,
Who in thy Danger, never safe can be.
Yet I have Hopes, the Waves will come to Peace,
And then cut thou thy way, when the Winds cease;
Mean while, since now thou can'st not swim the Sea,
In these Delays let these Lines comfort thee.
No Liberty.
WHat's Liberty? Or where is't to be found?
'Tis nothing but a Name, an Empty sound,
Which foolish Man does use, himself to please,
For by't he means but var'ous Slaveries.
Contented Discontent.
HAppy the Man can his Contents command,
When Discontents surround on ev'ry hand;
And in the midst of Fortune's troubled Sea,
In his small Bark enjoy Tranquillity;
Swiftly Rides on, and cuts the yielding Waves,
That to the Fearful Passengers were Graves;
Till safely 'arriv'd at th'shore of Happiness,
With Reason can his Prudent Conduct Bless.
The New Year.
WElcom, young Year, thou New-born Phaenix, who
Out of thy Parent's Urn art Ris'n but now;
Ris'n th' Universal Monarch, at thy Birth
Was giv'n thee the Crown of all the Earth.
THE CREED IN AN ACROSTICK. The Letters whereof make the first ARTICLE.
I In th' Almighty God do put my Trust;
By whom the World Created was, and must
Ev'n by him be sustain'd; or else 'twill soon
Lost be, and to its Ant'ent Chaos run.
In Jesus Christ his Only Son, Our Lord,
Ever shall be my Trust; Who does afford
Vile and Ungrateful Man the Hopes of Life
Eternal in the Heav'ns, where is no Strife.
Incarnate by the Holy Ghost came forth,
Not of a Woman—, but a Virgin-Birth
GOD his Dear Son out of his Bosom gave,
Of Lost Mankind the wretched Race to save.
Dear bought He our Salvati'on, under went
The Cruel Death o'th' Cross, on which he spent
His Preci'ous Blood for us. Him Pilate scourg'd,
Ev'n after he'd acquitted him; because Jews urg'd.
From the dark Grave, breaking Death's slight-wrought Chain,
After three days he'd fetter'd in it lain,
The Pow'rs of Hell too seen and Conquered,
He Rose Victori'ous from his Rocky Bed:
Ever to live; He through the Milky Way
Rode in the Clouds Triumphant as the Day,
And in the Glori'ous Heav'ns does now remain
Long there to live, Eternally to Reign
Most High with His Great Father; And from thence
In Judgment shall he come, and Recompence
Give to those Men, who shall on Earth remain
How Great soever, and to those, who 've lain
Thousands of years in uncontrouled sleep
In that Cave where all things do silence keep:
Each shall Rewarded be for ev'ry Deed.
Money will not avail, Christ won't be Fee'd.
And of his Kingdom there shall be no End.
(Know then, proud Man, who Reigns Above, and Mend.)
Eternal is the Glori'ous Trinity,
Riches immense are in that Mystery:
One of those Three, the Holy Ghost to be,
Firmly I do Believe, God One, the Persons Three.
HE from the Father and the Son doth spring;
Eternally to All Which Saints shall sing,
And Glorifie and Worship and Adore.
Ven'rable Prophets, who did heretofore
Earth's Dreadful Judgments Denounce all abroad,
Not Humane Dictates, but the VVord of God.
An Holy Church dispersed here and there,
Nothing but Christs Commandments holding Dear
Do live, I doubt not. The bright Saints above,
Earth's Pious Pilgrims shall be joyn'd in Love.
And I Believe in Baptism we have
Remissi'on of our Sins. And from the Grave
The Dead shall Rise again. And I depend,
Heav'n's Joys and Life shall never have an End.
The LORD'S PRAYER, AN ACROSTICK. The Letters whereof make the PREFACE.
O Grac'ous Father, who in Heav'n, dost dwell,
(Under whose Hands are all the Pow'rs of Hell:)
Rescue thy sacred Name from Blasphemy,
Fill all the VVorld with thy Dread Majesty.
And let thy Glor'ous VVord surround the Earth,
That of thy Holy Truth there be no Dearth.
Heav'n does thy VVill perform, let Earth do so,
Ev'n as the Saints Above, the Saints Below.
Reach forth to us with thy most Bount'ous Hand
VVhat things we want, Do thou but give Command,
He shall supply our wants, who hopes our Ill,
In thy hand, Lord, rests ev'ry Mortal's VVill.
Choice Blessings shall come forth the Lyon's Jaws.
His Carcase shall Relieve us, whose rough Paws
At us were lifted up, as to Devour.
Ruine intended to sure Rest, thy Pow'r
Turns. Pardon whatsoe're we've done amiss;
It's our Desire to Pardon Trespasses,
No En'my's Bond with us Uncancell'd is.
Help, Lord, and keep us from Temptati'on Free,
Earth, Heav'n and Hell Obed'ent are to Thee.
And in all Straits send us Delivery.
Vail, Man, thy Glory here, and God's Adore,
Endless his Kingdom, Glory, and his Power
Now is, has been, and shall be Evermore.
CONTENT.
CONTENT! Whom all men seek, art seldom found
Of any. Where is't that Thou walk'st thy round?
Nor Court, nor City, nor the Country Swains
Thee in their Banquets, Trades, or constant Pains
Enjoy. But Discontent o're the World Reigns.
None can thy sought-for Company enjoy,
Thou'rt surely like the Self-enamor'd Boy:
Many thee Court, but thou art won by none,
Ev'n when we think t'embrace thee, thou art gone.
No Indi'an Mines more sought for are, than Thou:
The greatest Treasure that the World can show.
Is all a nothing unto thee, who art
So Rich, so Glorious in ev'ry part.
A Thousand Worlds who would not give for thee?
Nought's wanting where things by Thee ruled be.
Is there no way to win thee? Oh! those Joys
None can express, whose lasting never Cloys.
Ev'n those Few who enjoy Thee, can't Declare,
(Such is the vastness of the Joys, which are
The Subject of their Satisfaction) what
Is to be found in their Contented State.
Mirth is their constant Guest, and sure Delight,
And no perplexing Thought dares come in sight.
By Thee are all Confusi'ons Banished;
(Let Foolish men this World's oft Changes dread)
Eternal quiet does possess his Breast,
In whose blest House thou dost vouchsafe to Rest.
Evil can't him disturb, he is secure,
Whose Confidence in God is fixed Sure.
Each thing does add to his Content, and he
Lives safe 'mongst all the World's Uncertainty.
An EPITAPH on S. J. still Living.
In a Bad Sense.
SHort is the Time we Mortals have to Live.
And yet how much of that short Time we give
[...]ather to Trifles, or the works of Sin
And VVickedness, than unto Thoughts Divine!
Happy the Frugal of their Preci'ous Hours!
[...]oy does await them in the Heav'nly Bow'rs.
Oh! had I spent my time well; then I might
Now with great Pleasure have review'd at Night
Each Action of my Day: But now it's gone,
[...]pent is my Life's Glass, and I am Undone.
In a Good Sense.
I come, Great Father, at thy Dread Command,
[...]'bey thy Summons sent me by Death's Hand.
But, Graci'ous Father, e're I breathe my last,
Behind thy Back all my Offences cast.
Strengthen my Faith now in Death's Agony,
And let my closing Thoughts be fix'd on thee,
And thy dear Son, of whom I humbly Crave
That I of his great Merits part may have
To satisfie for my Offences past,
Grant this, and let me know, thou 't granted hast.
Then in the Grave in peace I'le lay my head
And sleep with thy bless'd Saints, which there lye dead.
Till thy dread Trump shall summon us again,
To thy Great Hall: VVhen Satan does Arraign
Us for our Sins, we'le Guilty plead and bring
Our Pardon sign'd by thee our Graci'ous King,
VVhich will Acquit us, and from thenceforth VVe
Shall Reign in Heaven to all Eternity.
J. N. Died Suddenly April 10. 16 [...]6.
THou'rt now, Alas! gone to thy Long Home,
And either Know'st or hast receiv'd thy Doom.
[...]hou, who three days agoe wert in good Health,
[...]rt snatcht by Death away, as 'twere by stealth.
[...]o have I seen an Apple on a Tree,
[...]Vhich seem'd nor VVormy, nor yet Ripe to be,
[...]lown by a sudden Blast has fallen down,
[...]o more again b' his dear Branch to be known.
[...]ence teach us Lord, our Change to think upon,
[...]ince, when our Change will be is known to none.
[...]each us to live according to thy VVord,
[...]lways to practice Thy Commandments, Lord,
[...]hat we may not surprized be by Death,
[...]ut, when Thou call'st, with peace resign our Breath.
[...]each us to VVatch still and expecting stand,
[...]o hear thy Summons sent us by Death's Hand.
[...]o shall we all receive thy Promise giv'n,
[...]nd for our Recompense be lodg'd in Heav'n:
[...]Vhere Hallalujah's we shall always Sing,
[...]nd still Adore and Thank our God and King.
December [...]9th. 1683. A Rainy [...]awing Sunday.
IMproperly this Day does bear it's Name,
In which no shining Ray from Phoebus came.
A Gloomy and a darksome Day 't has been,
Nothing but Rain and thick Clouds have been seen.
But it may well be called the Lord's day,
Because when heav'n and Earth shall flee away;
VVhen Quick and Dead shall hear the Trumpet Call
All to appear in God's great Judgment Hall;
Cloudy and Stormy shall that Great Day be,
Nothing but Prodigies shall all Flesh see.
This Day but few unto the Church did come,
The greater Part by far remain'd at Home.
If but a show'r of Rain kept them away,
VVhen the Church is on Fire, will They in't stay?
VVhen his bright Beams Sol does on his Day dart
Then in whole Troops they flock from ev'ry part;
But when the Day's beclouded none appear,
And there's almost no Congregati'on here.
These are they, who on stony Ground are sown,
Than whom, in times of Peace, more Zealous none,
But when Peace ceaseth, none are sooner flown.
SUCCESS.
MAN unto Providence his Thriving owes,
His VVicked Policies Heav'n overthrows:
His good Designs too, if they do not tend
To God, must not expect an happy End.
All thy Designs with Pray'rs to God begin,
That they mayn't fail, nor lead thee into Sin.
Beg his assistance, that He would Protect
Thee, and supply with's VVisdom thy Defect▪
Thus Fortify'd and Guarded venture on,
[...]et nothing Daunt thy Resolution,
[...]ike Conqu'ring Hannibal, boldly proceed,
[...]et Difficulties thy Intenti'ons feed.
[...]et not one Disappointment baffle thee,
[...]ut rather more Resolv'd and Constant be.
Yet all thy Disappointments ponder well,
[...]onsider why Heav'n does thy projects Quell.
Whether thy Thoughts were not employ'd above;
Or through forbidden Paths thy Deeds did move;
Or whether if Success thy Deeds had Crown'd,
Thou might'st not in them greater Cares have found.
If so, to thy proceedings put a stay,
And turn thy Tide of strength another way.
If thy Designs are bless'd with wisht Success,
Let grateful Thoughts thy thankful Heart possess.
Grudge not the Tribute of thy largest Praise,
But unto Heav'n thy Noble Thoughts up raise:
Publish aloud God's Blessings unto thee,
Proclaim'd, like David's, let thy Praises be.
Give not God's Glory to thy Humane VVit
Thou held'st the Bow, he guided thee to hit
Thy aim'd-at Mark; Or else thy trembling Hand
Had not Obedi'nt been to thy Command.
Ʋpon a Sick Maid.
FUll 'twice sev'n Winter Nights are past and gone,
Wherein this sickly Maid no Rest has known;
[...]ull 'twice sev'n times the glori'ous Sun has rose,
[...]nd set as oft, yet finds she no Repose,
[...]ach Night a Month seems to her, and each Day
[...]akes her to think the Sun has lost his way,
[...]r that his Steeds are Lame, or's Chari'ot lost
[...]'s broken VVheels, and can no longer Boast
[...]heir wonted swiftness —
These Changes Bodily Distempers make,
[...]ut what the Mind's do, th' Measures who can take?
[...]ninterrupted Torments they endure,
[...]ysit'ans sometimes Bodies, ne're Minds cure.
DEATH.
DEath! Thou the Ender art of all our Woes,
The Just that's Mis'rable with Gladness goes
Down to the silent Grave. But the Unjust,
Though miserable here, with great Distrust
Descends into thy Darksome Chambers, Death,
And with extream Reluctancy gives up his Breath.
Because his sad Account is nigh at hand,
And he before God's Judgment-Seat must stand.
His Greatest Troubles do but then Begin,
When he must Punisht be for all his Sin.
REPUTATION.
FAme, Reputation, Credit, Rumor too
Are Names, which in the World make much ado.
Who Courts this Nymph, (for all are but the same
Chimaera-Goddess, by a diff'rent Name)
Shall find her Coy, and Vari'ous as the VVind,
Depending on each fickle Tongue or Mind;
A small Mistake, or a Malici'ous Lye
Will quickly make his Int'rest with her dye.
Would'st know, O Man, what in this Case to do?
The ways of Right'ousness always pursue.
In True Integrity still keep the Road,
That is describ'd at large i'th' Word of God.
If this thy Credit raise among the good;
Live not upon't, as on Camaeleon's Food;
If Men point at thee as thou pass Along,
And people in whole Troops about thee throng;
Be not puff'd up with't; for the same's their Lot,
VVho on their Credit have the greatest Blot.
Hang-men and Newgate-Birds enjoy the same,
VVhose strange Offences have proclaim'd their Name.
Or if thy Guiltless Life bespatter'd be
VVith False Reports, for which thou can'st not see
Any Just Grounds; Or envi'ous Persons spend
Their utmost Spight and Malice to extend,
And wrest thy inn'cent VVords for their Design,
To meanings that are Strangers unto Thine;
Be not discourag'd, but thy way keep on,
Remember, that the same were cast upon
Our Savi'our, and his pious Prophets too,
VVhat they did, Grudge not thou to undergo.
From Vertue's Path, let not this frighten thee:
On thy Reward let thy Thoughts fixed be.
The gen'rous Horse scorns to break's way for all
The barking yelping Curs that at him Brawl.
VVhat Monarch would affrighted make a stay,
Because an Ape grins at him in the way,
VVhen he to Glory does his Journey bend,
And all his Nobles on him do attend?
Rather not looking at him, on He'd go,
Nothing concern'd, scorning so mean a Foe.
PSALM I. Paraphrased.
1.
HAppy the Man, thrice happy shall he be
In Heav'n's bright Mansions to Eternity,
VVho hating all the Devil's works, does shun
His Imps Incarnate, whom he has Undone;
Avoids their Company, ne're with them goes,
Counts them his own, who are his Maker's Foes:
Stands not with Pleasure in the VValks of Sin,
Nor sitteth in the Bow'ers that are therein.
2.
But in God's Holy Law his thoughts does spend,
To understand and practice it does bend
His whole Intenti'ons; he his whole Delight
Does place in that, studies it Day and Night.
3.
As Trees that planted by the VVaters are,
By that Advantage, flourish and grow Fair;
And in the Autumn with their proper Fruit
Yield to the Swain a plentiful Recruit:
Ev'n so shall this Man be: But in this thing
He shall excel, his Leaves shall always Spring,
Shall never Fade, nor VVither, but be Green;
Nor ought he undertaketh shall be seen
To want Success. But God will him befriend,
Crown all his Acti'ons with an happy End.
4.
But as the stubble, which by th' smallest Blast
Is ev'ry Minute troubled and displac'd;
Such is the VVicked, who does bend his Mind
To serve old Satan, being ill-inclin'd.
5.
In that great Day, when all the VVorld shall be
In God's great Judgment-Hall, their Judge to see,
And from his Mouth to hear their sentence giv'n:
(Which will some place in Hell, and some in Heav'n.)
Then shall the wicked Courage want to stand,
When they see Christ sitting at God's Right Hand,
And pleading for the humble Innocent,
Who have so frequent Prayers to him sent.
Nor shall they ever with the Righte'ous go
Up into Heav'en, VVhom they despis'd Below.
6.
The VVay in which the Righte'ous walk, is known
By God, and here God's Countenance is shown.
But where the VVicked walk, shall be o'regrown
VVith Briers, or by VVaters overflown.
PSALM. III.
1.
HOW greatly do my Foes, Lord, Multiply!
How they encrease that bear me Enmity!
As Rivers do, the further course they Run;
As Fears to them, who fain themselves would shun;
As a Sedition still by progress grows,
Till a small Tumult the whole Realm o'reflows:
So do my Foes encrease, such Progress make,
Still new Conspir'tors to themselves they take.
2.
Thus strengthen'd they Triumphing to me say,
Yield now thy self as Conquer'd, and Obey;
For God has thee forsaken, see our Pow'r!
Of thy Captivity now's come the hour.
3.
But yet these swelling VVords Affright me not,
Their strength is Flesh, Thou art, O Lord, my Lot:
Thou, Lord, art my Defence, my Buckler strong,
All my Renown does unto thee belong.
When I in Miry Woes Amaz'd did stand
Doubting my safety, thou didst lend thy hand:
Thou Lead'st me out, held'st up my drooping Head,
And mad'st me on my Foes in Triumph tread.
4.
When I distress'd my Prayers made to thee,
VVithout delay thou sent'st delivery.
So speedy are our Cryes, when made aright,
They're stronger too than mighty Gi'ants in Fight.
From Earth to Heav'n, from thence Return they soon
VVith a full Grant of our well-asked Boon.
5.
Trusting on thee, I laid me down in Peace,
To take my Rest, and wak'd in the same ease;
For thou securest me, proscrib'st my Care;
VVhil'st thou dost help, I'le entertain no Fear,
6.
Milli'ons of Foes that compass me around,
My Heart in despe'rate thoughts shall never drown.
7.
Arise, my Mighty God, deliver me.
Let all my Foes thy Terrors feel or see:
Some thou' already hast smote with wounding stroke,
Their Jaws and cheifest strength, thou, Lord, hast broke.
8.
From thee O Lord, does all Salvation come,
Thou thine Elect blessest with Peace at Home.
PSALM XLVI.
1.
THou art our strength, O Lord, our strongest Fort,
To thee in all Distresses we resort;
Thou art our sure Asylum, and from thee
Comes present help in all Adversity.
2.
Nothing shall therefore in our hearts beget
A Trembling Fear, though all the World be set
To Frighten and Amaze us; though the Earth
By vast Convulsi'ons, from that Place it's Birth
Fixed it in, Remove; though Mountains Tall,
By them remov'd, into the Oce'an fall.
3.
Though the rough Waves of Neptune's angry Brow
Mount up so high, that no Ships can them Plough;
Though with their mighty Noise they others fright,
And make them dread th' Eternal coming Night;
And with their dashing Billows loudly Rore,
And shake the strongest Mountains on the Shore.
4.
Amidst these Great Confusi'ons, one Flood shall
With gladsome streams compass the quiet Wall
Of God's choice City, his most Holy Place,
Where is his Temple, where still shines his Face.
5.
Here God with plent'ous Blessings does Reside,
And here his Graci'ous Presence does abide
Nothing shall move her then, her helping God
Shall scourge her Foes with his chastising Rod.
Her earli'est Foes his sure Revenge shall feel,
Nought shall avail their swords of trusty Steel.
6.
The Nati'ons Angry were, and did conspire,
But were soon quell'd by God's consuming Fire.
His Thundrings and his Lightnings flew abroad,
The melting Earth submitted to her God.
7.
The mighty God of Hosts is with us still,
And Jacob's God always preserve us will.
8.
You, unconsid'ring Men, come and behold
God's wondrous Works, which scarcely can be told!
What Desolati'ons in his Anger he
Has made, which Tokens of his Fury be!
9.
An Universal Peace he does proclaim,
None durst his Orders disobey or blame:
The Bows and Spears and Ir'on Chari'ots too▪
He makes unable any hurt to do.
10.
Be still, saith God, and know that I am he
That Govern all, and won't Resisted be.
My boundless Glory Heathens shall Proclaim;
And all the World Rev'rence my Holy Name.
11.
The mighty God of Hosts is with us still,
And Jacob's God always preserve us will.
PSALM XCI.
1.
WHO under God his Habitati'on makes,
And him for his assur [...]d Protecti'on takes,
Shall reap th' advantage of his Prudent Choice,
And under his Protecting Shade Rejoyce.
Nor burning Heat, nor Rain shall him annoy;
All their weak Force God's Branches shall destroy.
2.
Of my Ne're-failing God, I'le always say,
He is my Refuge, Fortress, and my stay,
My Mighty God, and my most strong Defence,
In him alone I'le put my Confidence.
3.
Who e're thou art, that dost on him Rely,
Fear not, for he to save thee won't be shy:
From those deceitful Men would thee Ensnare,
From Sickness too, Salvati'on he'le prepare.
4.
As Hens their Brood preserve from Birds of Prey,
So shall his Wings save thee from Day to Day;
And under them thy surest Trust shall be,
Better than Ajax's Shield they'le be to thee.
5.
None of those Dreadful Terrors shall affright
Thee, which or walk their Round at dead of Night,
Or else with bolder Face out-brave the Day,
And Troops of VVorldlings frighted send away.
6.
Nor Pestilence, which Mortals in their sleep
Does often from their Clayey Houses sweep;
Nor those Contagi'ons, which at Noon-day Sun
Through thickest Troops their killing Races run.
7.
Thousands shall drop down dead at thy right hand,
Ten Thousands at thy left, yet thou shalt stand.
8.
Thou shalt not feel, but with thine Eyes shalt see,
VVith what Just Plagues Sinners rewarded be:
9.
Because thou 'hast put thy Trust in the Most High,
And on my Mighty Refuge dost Rely;
10.
No Crosses or Afflicti'ons shalt thou know,
Nor any Plague shall near thy Dwellings go.
11.
To 'his mighty Angels he shall give Command,
About thy VVays protecting thee to stand.
12.
As careful Mothers do their Children lead,
Lest stumbling with their Feet, they bruise their Head:
So shall they keep thee and preserve thee still,
That thy great Foe may never have his will.
13.
On Asps and Dragons, and on Lions strong
Securely shalt thou tread, and Lyons young.
14.
Because he has fixed on me his Love,
Nothing shall him from my Salvati'on Move.
I will exalt him on the VVings of Fame,
'Cause he Relies upon my Holy Name.
15.
He shall his constant Pray'rs unto me make,
And them to answer I still care will take
In all his Trouble I'le still with him be,
Still save him, and his Honour all shall see.
16.
Long Life, if he desire, I will him Give,
And under my Protecti'on he shall Live.
FINIS.