William Cowper
The only true happiness comes from squandering ourselves for a purpose.
God gives to every man virtue, temper, and understanding.
Glory built on selfish principles is shame and guilt.
Words learned by rote a parrot may rehearse; but talking is not always to converse, not more distinct from harmony divine, the constant creaking of a country sign.
'Tis hard if all is false that I advanceA fool must now and then be right, by chance.
O Winter! ruler of the inverted year, . . . I crown thee king of intimate delights, Fireside enjoyments, home-born happiness, And all the comforts that the lowly roof Of undisturb'd Retirement, and the hours Of long uninterrupted evening, know.
For 'tis a truth well known to most,That whatsoever thing is lost,We seek it, ere it comes to light,In every cranny but the right.