Page:Poetical Works of John Oldham.djvu/183

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HERE is not one base act which men commit, But carries this ill sting along with it, That to the author it creates regret; And this is some revenge at least, that he Can ne'er acquit himself of villany, Though a bribed judge and jury set him free. All people, sir, abhor (as 'tis but just) Your faithless friend, who lately broke his trust, And curse the treacherous deed; but, thanks to fate, That has not blessed you with so small estate, But that with patience you may bear the cross, And need not sink under so mean a loss. Besides, your case for less concern does call, Because 'tis what does usually befall; Ten thousand such might be alleged with ease, Out of the common crowd of instances. Then cease, for shame, immoderate regret, And don't your manhood and your sense forget; 'Tis womanish and silly to lay forth More cost in grief than a misfortune's worth.