Samuel Butler

Besides 'tis known he could speak Greek
As naturally as pigs squeak;
That Latin was no more read more

Besides 'tis known he could speak Greek
As naturally as pigs squeak;
That Latin was no more difficile
That to a blackbird 'tis to whistle.

Fear is an ague, that forsakes
And haunts, by fits, those whom it takes;
And they'll opine read more

Fear is an ague, that forsakes
And haunts, by fits, those whom it takes;
And they'll opine they feel the pain
And blows they felt, to-day, again.

Honor is like a widow, won
With brisk attempt and putting on.

Honor is like a widow, won
With brisk attempt and putting on.

The self-same thing they will abhor. One way, and long another for.

The self-same thing they will abhor. One way, and long another for.

And force them, though it was in spite
Of Nature and their stars, to write.

And force them, though it was in spite
Of Nature and their stars, to write.