In Praise of Old Age

OLD-Age which we both hope, and fear to see,
Is no such Burden as it seems to be:
But it uneas'ly if we undergo,
'Tis then our selves take pains to make it so.

A yielding Patience will create our Ease,
So do the Wise compound in Youth for Peace.
Who thus complies, both to himself is kind,
Whilst he secures the Quiet of his Mind:

And to his Friends a just Respect does show,
Which gains him Love, and Veneration too.