Consists in the well-choosing of his wife:
And there, well to discharge it, does require
Equality of years, of birth, of fortune;
For beauty being poor, and not cried up
By birth or wealth, can truly mix with neither.
And wealth, when there's such difference in years,
And fair descent, must make the yoke uneasy.

--_Massinger._

1312

MATRIMONY.

1. That man must lead a happy life
2. Who is directed by a wife;
3. Who's free from matrimonial chains
4. Is sure to suffer for his pains.

5. Adam could find no solid peace
6. Till he beheld a woman's face;
7. When Eve was given for a mate,
8. Adam was in a happy state.

Epigram: Read alternate lines,--1,3; 2,4; 5,7; 6,8.

--_Cowper._

1313

FROM A WORK ENTITLED "SKETCHES OF PERSIA."

The following admirable lines were inscribed upon a golden crown having
five sides, which was found in the tomb of Noosherwan.

_First Side._--"Consider the end before you begin, and before
you advance, provide a retreat.

Give not unnecessary pain to any man, but study the
happiness of all.

Ground not your dignity upon your power to hurt
others."

_Second Side._--"Take counsel before you commence any measure,
and never trust its execution to the inexperienced.

Sacrifice your property for your life, and your life
for your religion.

Spend your time in establishing a good name, and if
you desire fortune, learn contentment."

_Third Side._--"Grieve not for that which is broken, stolen,
burnt or lost.

Never give order in another man's house; accustom
yourself to eat your bread at your own table."

_Fourth Side._--"Take not a wife from a bad family, and seat
not thyself with those who have no shame.

Keep thyself at a distance from those who are
incorrigible in bad habits, and hold no intercourse
with that man who is insensible to kindness.

Convert not the goods of others.

Be sensible of your own value, estimate justly the
worth of others: and war not with those who are far
above thee in fortune."

_Fifth Side._--"Be envious of no man, and avoid being out of
temper, or thy l