Law

LAWS, as we read in ancient sages,

Have been like cobwebs in all ages.

Cobwebs for little flies are spread,

And laws for little folks are made;

But if an insect of renown,

Hornet or beetle, wasp or drone,

Be caught in quest of sport or plunder,

The flimsy fetter flies in sunder.

James Beattie

An Epitaph

LIKE thee I once have stemm'd the sea of life,

Like thee have languish'd after empty joys,

Like thee have labour'd in the stormy strife,

Been grieved for trifles, and amused with toys.

Forget my frailties; thou art also frail:

Forgive my lapses; for thyself may'st fall:

Nor read unmoved my artless tender tale --

I was a friend, O man, to thee, to all.

James Beattie