Читать книгу The Humorous Poetry of the English Language; from Chaucer to Saxe - Various - Страница 69

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Peter continueth to give great Advice, and to exhibit deep reflection

—He telleth a miraculous Story.

There is a knack in doing many a thing,

Which labor can not to perfection bring:

Therefore, however great in your own eyes,

Pray do not hints from other folks despise:

A fool on something great, at times, may stumble,

And consequently be a good adviser:

On which, forever, your wise men may fumble,

And never be a whit the wiser

Yes! I advise you, for there's wisdom in't,

Never to be superior to a, hint—

The genius of each man, with keenness view—

A spark from this, or t'other, caught,

May kindle, quick as thought,

A glorious bonfire up in you.

A question of you let me beg—

Of fam'd Columbus and his egg.

Pray, have you heard? "Yes."—O, then, if you please

I'll give you the two Pilgrims and the Peas.