Contents -BIBLIOGRAPHIC RECORD

Edward Farr, ed. Select Poetry of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth. 1845.

Stanzas from “The Author’s muse vpon this life in manner of a dittie”

LXI. Leonard Stauely

I MUSING in my carefull minde

Of this vaine fleeting life,

By perfect proofe this doo I finde—

’Tis nothing els but strife.

Which when I see the pinching pains

Wherewith poore men are prest,

I deeme him happiest that hath this gaine,

By Christe eternall rest.

For heer I see our cares abound

And sorrowes stil encrease,

And neuer until vnder ground

Our corps doo lye at ease.

Our labor then is ended sure;

And blessed is that wight,

The greatest greefs did here endure,

And led a life most right.