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Leisure by Charles Lamb
They talk of time, and of time's galling yoke, That like a millstone on man's mind doth press, Which only works and business can redress: Of divine Leisure such foul lies are spoke, Wounding her fair gifts with calumnious stroke. But might I, fed with silent meditation, Assoiled live from that fiend Occupation-- Improbus Labor, which my spirits hath broke-- I'd drink of time's rich cup, and never surfeit: Fling in more days than went to make the gem That crown'd white top of Methusalem: Yea on my weak neck take, and never forfeit, Like Atlas bearing up the dainty sky, The heaven-sweet burthen of eternity.
Deus Nobis Hæc Otia Fecit. |  |