John Gay

Envy's a sharper spur than pay:
No author ever spar'd a brother;
Wits are gamecocks to one read more

Envy's a sharper spur than pay:
No author ever spar'd a brother;
Wits are gamecocks to one another.

The fly that sips treacle is lost in the sweets.

The fly that sips treacle is lost in the sweets.

Of all the fools that pride can boast,
A Coxcomb claims distinction most.

Of all the fools that pride can boast,
A Coxcomb claims distinction most.

What boots it on the lineal tree to trace
Through many a branch the founders of our race.

What boots it on the lineal tree to trace
Through many a branch the founders of our race.

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.