The glitt'ring ore let others vainly heap,

O'er fertile vales extend th' inclosing mound;

With dread of neighb'ring foes forsake their sleep,

And start aghast at ev'ry trumpet's sound.

Me humbler scenes delight, and calmer days;

A tranquil life fair poverty secure!


Tibullus, I, 1, 1–6 (Grainger 1759, pp. 3, 5)