Page:The Century Of Life.pdf/18

 THE PRAISES OF KNOWLEDGE

Knowledge is nobler beauty in a man

‘Than features: ’tis his hidden hoard of price; This the long roll of Masters first began;

Pleasure it brings, just fame and constant bliss, And is a helping friend in foreign lands, And is a very god with puissant hands. Knowledge, not wealth in great men is adored, Nor better than a beast the mind unstored.

COMPARISONS

Men cherish burning anger in their hearts, Yet look without to find if they have foes.

Who sweet forbearance has, requires no arts Of speech; persuading silently he goes.

Why fear the snake when in thy kindness bask Men evil, or a fire while kinsmen jar

Burning thy house! From heaven no medicines ask To heal a troubled mind, where true friends are.

Nor seek for ornaments, noble modest shame

Being with thee, nor for wealth when wisdom ’s by. Who needs a kingdom when his mind can claim

A golden realm in sweetest poetry?