1.

        Weighing the stedfastness and state 
Of some mean things which here below reside, 
Where birds, like watchful clocks, the noiseless date 
        And intercourse of times divide, 
Where bees at night get home and hive, and flow'rs 
              Early, as well as late, 
Rise with the sun and set in the same bow'rs; 


              2.

        I would said I my God would give 
The staidness of these things to man! for these 
To His divine appointments ever cleave, 
        And no new business breaks their peace; 
The birds nor sow nor reap, yet sup and dine; 
              The flow'rs without clothes live, 
Yet Solomon was never dress'd so fine. 


              3.

        Man hath still either toys, or care; 
He hath no root, nor to one place is tied, 
But ever restless and irregular 
        About this Earth doth run and ride. 
He knows he hath a home, but scarce knows where; 
              He says it is so far, 
That he hath quite forgot how to go there. 


              4.

        He knocks at all doors, strays and roams, 
Nay, hath not so much wit as some stones have, 
Which in the darkest nights point to their homes, 
        By some hid sense their Maker gave; 
Man is the shuttle, to whose winding quest 
              And passage through these looms 
God order'd motion, but ordain'd no rest.