Page:Works of Voltaire Volume 36.djvu/119



You ask me, and I'll tell in rhyme, How we at Cirey pass our time: What need I to you this relate, Our master, you we imitate: From you we've learned the wisest rules, Taught in famed Epicurus' schools. We here all sacrifice like you, To every art and nature too. And yet we but at distance follow Your steps, though guided by Apollo. Thus when the brilliant god of day Casts from heaven's height a shining ray, Upon some chamber dark as night, Of those blest rays the shining light, The chambers deep obscure pervades And dissipate the gloomy shades, Then the spectators cast their eyes on A miniature of the horizon. Such a comparison may show That some philosophy I know, That I've read Newton and Kirkherus, Authors both learned, profound and serious. Perhaps my muse this 'tone assuming, May be by many thought presuming; Perhaps I spoil at the same time As well philosophy as rhyme, Vol. 36—7