31. Marzo. 1827.
[4267,3]
Q131457435The ancients (to say
the least of them) had as much genius as we; they constantly applied
themselves not only to that art, but to that single branch of an art, to
which their talent was most powerfully bent; and it was the business of
their lives to correct and finish their works for posterity. If we can
pretend to have used the same industry, let us expect the same
immortality: Though, if we took the same care, we should still lie under
a farther misfortune: They writ in languages that became universal and
everlasting, while ours are extremely limited both in extent and {in} duration. A mighty foundation for our pride!
when the utmost we can hope, is but to be read in one island, and to be
thrown aside at the end of an age.
4268
Pope
Prefazione generale alla Collezione delle sue
Opere{giovanili (Collezione pubblicata nel
1717.)} data Nov. 10. 1716.
Pope era nato del 1688.
[4268,1]
Q131457435The muses are amicae omnium
horarum; and, like our gay acquaintance, the best company in
the world, as long as one expects no real service from them.
Ibid.
[4268,2]
Q131457435We spend our youth in
pursuit of riches or fame, in hopes to enjoy them when we are old; and
when we are old, we find it is too late to enjoy any thing.
Ibid.
(31. Marzo. 1827.).
