My most Distinguished Guest

My most distinguished guest and learned friend, / The pallid hare that runs before the day

Having brought your earnest counsels to an end

Now have I somewhat of my own to say:

That it is folly to be sunk in love, / And madness plain to make the matter known, / These are no mysteries you are verger of:

Everyman's wisdoms these are, and my own.

If I have flung my heart unto a hound

I have done ill, it is a certain thing; Yet breathe I freer, walk I the more sound

On my sick bones for this brave reasoning?

Soon must I say, "Tis prowling Death I hear!"

Yet come no better off, for my quick ear.