John Dryden

For that can power give more than food and drink,
To live at ease, and not be bound to read more

For that can power give more than food and drink,
To live at ease, and not be bound to think?

But Shakespeare's magic could not copied be;
Within that circle none durst walk but he.

But Shakespeare's magic could not copied be;
Within that circle none durst walk but he.

There's a proud modesty in merit; averse from asking, and resolved to pay ten times the gifts it asks.

There's a proud modesty in merit; averse from asking, and resolved to pay ten times the gifts it asks.

For your ignorance is the mother of your devotion to me.

For your ignorance is the mother of your devotion to me.

When Misfortune is asleep, let no one wake her.
[Lat., Quando la mala ventura se duerme, nadie la despierte.]

When Misfortune is asleep, let no one wake her.
[Lat., Quando la mala ventura se duerme, nadie la despierte.]