Classic Poem

At variance with a former friend,
Fortune to Wisdom turned, and said: —
" My all on thee I will expend
So thou become my friend instead!

" All that I had, my very best,
I gave him without more ado;
Yet e'er he has some new request,
And calls me avaricious too.

" Come, Sister, let us friendship swear;
No longer slave at yonder plough;
With thee my fortune let me share,
Here is enough for both, I trow. "

At this Dame Wisdom made reply,
Wiping her forehead as she smiled: —
" By his own hand thy friend may die:
I need thee not — Get reconciled. "