The Fool's Epilogue.

Many good works I've done and ended,     Ye take the praise I'm not offended;     For in the world, I've always thought     Each thing its true position hath sought.     When praised for foolish deeds am I,     I set off laughing heartily;     When blamed for doing something good,     I take it in an easy mood.     If some one stronger gives me hard blows,     That it's a jest, I feign to suppose:     But if 'tis one that's but my own like,     I know the way such folks to strike.     When Fortune smiles, I merry grow,     And sing in dulci jubilo;     When sinks her wheel, and tumbles me o'er,     I think 'tis sure to rise once more.     In the sunshine of summer I ne'er lament,     Because the winter it cannot prevent;     And when the white snow-flakes fall around,     I don my skates, and am off with a bound.     Though I dissemble as I will,     The sun for me will ne'er stand still;     The old and wonted course is run,     Until the whole of life is done;     Each day the servant like the lord,     In turns comes home, and goes abroad;     If proud or humble the line they take,     They all must eat, drink, sleep, and wake.     So nothing ever vexes me;     Act like the fool, and wise ye'll be!