Quote#Wisdom
When needs he must, yet faintly then he praises
Quote byPhineas Fletcher · 1582–1650
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: The Purple Island (1633), Canto 1, st. 67.
English (original)
When needs he must, yet faintly then he praises; Somewhat the deed, but more the means, he raises: So marreth what he makes, and praising most, dispraises.
— Phineas Fletcher
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Thus fell that prince of darkness, once a bright And shining star [...]: To be in Heaven the second he disdains; So now the first in Hell and flames he reigns, Crowned once with joy and light: crowned now with fire and pains.
Drop, drop, slow tears, And bathe those beauteous feet, Which brought from Heaven The news and Prince of Peace.
Love’s tongue is in the eyes.
Love is like linen; often changed, the sweeter.