Proemio et poena

THE vernant Bay, with liuing fame shall crowne,
Victorious Caesar, or sweete Maro's brow,
As due reward of Learning, and renowne:
To Iustice hand, we do the Sword allow:
For by these two, all common-wealthes doe stand,
And virtue is vpheld in every land.

For Honor, Valour drawes her sword to fight,
Devoide of feare, or cuts the foamy surge:
The Muse for glorie labours day and night,
To braue attempts, yea this doth cowards vrge:
When Iustice sword, th' inglorious and the base,
Vnworthy life, pursues with all disgrace.