Thus with the year Seasons return; but not to me returns Day, or the sweet approach of even or morn, Or sight of vernal bloom or summer's rose, Or flocks, or herds, or human face divine; But cloud instead, and ever-during dark Surrounds me; from the cheerful ways of men Cut off, and for the book of knowledge fair Presented with a universal blank Of Nature's works, to me expung'd and raz'd, And wisdom at one entrance quite shut out.

And join with thee calm Peace and Quiet, Spare Fast, that oft with gods doth diet.

The superior man acquaints himself with many sayings of antiquity and many deeds of the past, in order to strengthen his character thereby.

On the tawny sands and shelves trip the pert fairies and the dapper elves.

Imparadis'd in one another's arms.

Faithful found among the faithless.

But see! theVirgin blessed Hath laid her Babe to rest. Time is our tedious song should here have ending.