Δευτέρα 13 Μαρτίου 2017

The Means to attain Happy Life

Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey. 1516–47

MARTIAL, the things that do attain
The happy life be these, I find
The richesse left, not got with pain
The fruitful ground, the quiet mind

The equal friend; no grudge, no strife
No charge of rule, nor governance
Without disease, the healthful life
The household of continuance

The mean diet, no delicate fare
True wisdom join'd with simpleness
The night dischargèd of all care,
Where wine the wit may not oppress.

The faithful wife, without debate
Such sleeps as may beguile the night
Contented with thine own estate
Ne wish for death, ne fear his might.