Classic Poem

II 4

Wouldst thou to some stedfast Seat
Out of Fortune's Pow'r retreat?
Wouldst thou when fierce Eurus blows
Calmly rest in safe Repose?
Wouldst thou see the foaming Main
Tossing rave but rave in vain?
Shun the Mountain's airy Brow,
Shun the Sea-sapp'd Sand below;
Soon th'aspiring Fabric falls,
When loud Auster shakes her Walls,
Soon the treachrous Sands retreat,
From beneath the cumbrous Weight;
Fix not where the tempting Height
Mingles Danger with Delight,
Safe upon the rocky Ground,
Firm and low thy Mansion found;
There, mid Tempests loudest Roars,
Dashing Waves and shatter'd Shoars,
Thou shalt sit and smile to see
All the World afraid but thee,
Lead a long and peaceful Age,
And deride their utmost Rage.