Note 330 — BOOK IV.

"——He spoke From a full heart, and skill'd in worldly lore, In deep, slow tones this solemn warning, fraught With wisdom, by long-suffering only taught: 'O passion of dominion! O fond lust Of that poor vanity which men call fame! O treach'rous appetite, whose highest gust Is vulgar breath that taketh honour's name! O fell ambition, terrible but just Art thou to breasts that cherish most thy flame! Brief life for them in peril, storm, and rage; This world a hell, and death their heritage. "'Shrewd prodigal! whose riot is the dearth Of states and principalities oppress'd, Plunder and rape are of thy loathly birth, Thou art alike of life and soul the pest. High titles greet thee on this slavish earth, Yet, none so vile but they would fit thee best. But Fame, forsooth, and Glory thou art styl'd, And the blind herd is by a sound beguil'd.'"