Thomas Middleton

With diadem and sceptre high advanced,
The lower still I fall; only supreme
In misery; such joy read more

With diadem and sceptre high advanced,
The lower still I fall; only supreme
In misery; such joy ambition finds.

But what avail'd this temperance, not complete
Against another object more enticing?

But what avail'd this temperance, not complete
Against another object more enticing?

How fallen, how changed
From him, who, in the happy realms of light,
Clothed with transcendent brightness, read more

How fallen, how changed
From him, who, in the happy realms of light,
Clothed with transcendent brightness, didst outshine
Myriads, though bright.

Anything for a quiet life.

Anything for a quiet life.

Who reigns within himself, and rules
Passions, desires, and fears, is more a king.

Who reigns within himself, and rules
Passions, desires, and fears, is more a king.