Page:Gondibert, an heroick poem - William Davenant (1651).djvu/325

 Gallerie, and at a great expence of time and Treasure, sent them forth in new Ornaments. And perhaps, if my POEM were not so severe a representation of Virtue (undressing Truth even out of those disguises, which have been most in fashion throughout the World) it might arrive at fair entertainment, though it make now for a Harbour in a Storm.

If thou art a malicious Reader, thou wilt remember, my Preface boldly confessed, That a main motive to this undertaking, was a desire of Fame; and thou mayst likewise say, I may very possibly not live to enjoy it. Truly I have some years ago consider'd, that Fame, like Time, onely gets a reverence by long running; and that like a River, 'tis narrowest where 'tis bred, and broadest afar off: but this concludes it not unprofitable; for he whose Writings divert Men from indiscretion & vice, becomes famous as he is an example to others endeavours: and exemplary Writers are Wiser than to depend on the gratuities of this World; since the kind looks and praises