Pierides, or, The muses mount by Hugh Crompton, Gent.

75. The Aspirer.

••Ull-fraighted with a strong desire, he seeks 〈◊〉〈◊〉 That fames loud Trumpeter might fill his checks, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tell his glory to all humane ears, ••nd make it thunder in the Hemisphears: ••ought will suffice him but a large report ••f his magnificence about the Court; ••e would be Caesar faine: but heark my friend, •• all essayes premeditate thy end. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that's exalted, quickly may be cast 〈◊〉〈◊〉 rapid storms, disturb'd by every blast: ••he Cedars tremble, while the Bushes stand, ••ot mov'd nor frighted by the winds command. ••nd the bold Borean arm most strongly knocks ••gainst the largest and the tallest rocks: When fortune meeteth with her strongest foe▪ ••e takes advantage there to overthrow. ••estruction glories and delights to ride. ••pon the shoulders of presuming pride. ••he longest freedom has the closest thrall: ••he highest rise begets the greatest fall. ••nce then such danger in the mountain lies, ••ond youth descend, descend if thou art wise. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 is a fate more happy to remain ••us belov'd, then Croesus in disdain. ••esides, thy worth can challenge no such thought, ••s Princes Reliques, they are dearly bought.

By birth & blood, blood spilt, and blood that's no•• Sad thoughts, high passions, and a world of tro•••• Now, if th' are thine by birth and worthy deed, Arm tho•• thy self with boldness, and proceed Unto possession; but (alas) we know No birth nor merit e're in thee did grow. Then spell thy self, and ponder on thy merit, For thou art too unworthy to inherit Such Gems as these. Each vulgar must not pass Within the bounds of the Corinthian Lass. Will thou be Prince? review thy ••elf, and than Thou mayst be happy if a Serving man. Besides, were honour thine by Ioves decree, Thou needst not seek for it, 't would follow thee.