by Margaret Scott.
Originally published in Ainsworth's Magazine: A Miscellany of Romance (Chapman and Hall) vol.3 #14 (Mar 1843).
"Begin nothing of which thou hast not well considered the end."
Keep the last page for ever in thy sight—
In the gay morning, think upon the night—
In all thy ways, consider where they tend—
In every thing, ask what will be its end—
In fairest flowers, remember they must fade—
In brightest skies, that clouds may overshade—
In thoughts indulged, think well on afterthought—
In all thou seekest, at what price 'tis bought—
In maddest hours, remember thought must come—
In strongest youth, bethink thee of the tomb—
And chasing thought, be sure it is in vain,
For though thou diest, thou must rise again.