The glories of our blood and state Are shadows, not substantial things; There is no armor against Fate; Death lays his icy hands on kings: Sceptre and Crown Must tumble down And in the dust be equal made With the poor crooked scythe and *****.
Some men with swords may reap the field, And plant fresh laurels where they ****: But their strong nerves at last must yield; They tame but one another still: Early or late They stoop to fate And must give up their murmering breath When they, pale captives, creep to death.
The garlands wither on your brow; Then boast no more your mighty deeds! Upon death's purple alter now See where the victor-victim bleeds. Your heads must come To the cold tomb: Only the actions of the just Smell sweet and blossom in their dust.