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The feeble works of art."

Humble usefulness is preferable to idle splendour.

(From the Polish of Ignace Krasicki.)

WINE AND WATER

PARTY of pleasure their sandwiches took,

&ensp;In the shade of a willow, that hung o'er a brook;

A bottle of Wine, that stood ready for drinking,

Thus spoke to the Water (I think, without thinking):―

&ensp;"How much more than you to be envied am I!

&ensp;The drink of the titled and rich I supply,—

While you (I could never endure it, I'm sure).

&ensp;Are stood in by cattle and drunk by the poor."

&ensp;"I own," said the Water, with modest reply,

&ensp;"Your grandness,—I never aspire so high.

&ensp;I know the rich think me their notice below.

&ensp;Except just for washing their faces, or so.

&ensp;If to boasting inclined, I have reason,—for see

&ensp;Yon group of young swimmers, delighting in me.

&ensp;To give pleasure and health to them, only is mine;

&ensp;For who ever bathed in a river of Wine?

&ensp;Then look at the strength of the lads in this place;

&ensp;Who, contented with me, have such health in their face;

&ensp;They work for your master and frugally dine.

&ensp;And give him the money to pay for his Wine.