Emblems of Mortality; representing, in upwards of fifty cuts, death seizing all ranks and degrees of people

The CANONESS.

Reading edition

There is a Way which seemeth Right unto a Man; but the End thereof are the Ways of Death.

Proverbs xiv. 12.

Illustration from Emblems of Mortality; representing, in upwards of fifty cuts, death seizing all ranks and degrees of people

An Apostrophe to Death. Why dost thou, pale and envious Death, A sacred Maid affright? Small Glory to thee can arise From Victories so slight. Go hence, let sick or aged Men Thy fatal Dart employ; But let this Virgin, innocent, Life’s Pleasures long enjoy. Pleasure and Joy her jocund Youth Should ardently pursue; The Pleasures of the Marriage-Bed To her gay Youth are due.