John Gay

Give me, kind Heaven, a private station,
A mind serene for contemplation:
Title and profit I resign;
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Give me, kind Heaven, a private station,
A mind serene for contemplation:
Title and profit I resign;
The post of honor shall be mine.

In every age and clime we see,
Two of a trade can ne'er agree.

In every age and clime we see,
Two of a trade can ne'er agree.

Life is a jest; and all things show it. I thought so once; but now I know it.

Life is a jest; and all things show it. I thought so once; but now I know it.

Who friendship with a knave hath made,
Is judg'd a partner in the trade.

Who friendship with a knave hath made,
Is judg'd a partner in the trade.

I never, with important air,
In conversation overbear.
. . . .
My tongue read more

I never, with important air,
In conversation overbear.
. . . .
My tongue within my lips I rein;
For who talks much must talk in vain.