Ere the birth of my life, if I wished it or no
No question was asked me — it could not be so!
If the life was the question, a thing sent to try
And to live on be Yes; what can No be? to die.

Nature's Answer


Is't returned, as 'twas sent? Is't no worse for the wear?
Think first, what you are! Call to mind what you were!
I gave you innocence, I gave you hope,
Gave health, and genius, and an ample scope,
Return you me guilt, lethargy, despair?
Make out the Invent'ry; inspect, compare!
Then die — if die you dare!
[1811]