Classic Poem

MAI CONTENT

I F I desir'd vnto the world to liue,
Or sought in soule to serue the golden God:
If I did homage to an idole giue,
Or with the wicked wisht to haue abode

Then, well might Justice lay her sword vpon mee
In due correction of my crooked hart;
But shall I liue, in soule thus woe begon mee,
That seeke in faith to serue the better part?

Ah, wretched Soule, why dost thou murmur so?
It is thy crosse, and thou art borne to beare it:
Through hellish griefs thy hart to heave must go,
For Patience crowne if thou wilt liue to wear it

Then rest with this, (since Faith is Virtues friend,)
Death ends distresse, Heauen makes a happy end.