XCII. John Bodenham

AS falls the tree, so prostrate still it lies,

So speedeth life in liuing as it dyes.

As men by life in bondage soone are brought,

Euen so by death is freedome soonest wrought.

As fire burnes fiercely, being still supplyed,

So life postes swiftly when it least is spyed.

As sharp frosts easily nip foreward springs,

So life to end it hath too many things.

As easterne winds doth towardly blossoms blast,

So inward cares makes life to finish fast.

As life is onely by the gift of grace,

So death by nature taketh time and place.