Other Sonnets vpon other Subiects, 17

WHen Verity and Vertue be at one
with Peoples-loue (cald Popularity)
They (like a forewind in the Poop) driue on
The Owner to sway Kingdoms easilye:
But, if this tripple Vnion be at ods
The lack of one may cause the wrack of al,
Although the lackers were terrestrial gods
Yet wil they ruling reel, or reeling fall.
I grant, a time vice may have good successe,
And rule at wil, by rules of Policy;
But in Conclusion will haue nothing lesse,
If true the Rules be of Diuinity:
For, who doth rule by Rules that vertue lack,
In Vices spight his Rule shalbe his wrack.