Virtus post Nummos

Of old my case was such that men of worth conceded to me
I was the best of company; well would my kinsmen treat me.
They turn their backs upon me now, who once were blithe to view me;
And now that all my wealth is gone, I find them slow to greet me.
I must make way before that man—so altered now my case is—
Who once made way for me; before me now he proudly paces.
Now all are hosts, who then were guests of mine and failed me never;
And yet, though twenty years have past, I'm the same man as ever.
Now guest, not host, am I; through ups and downs our life is guided.
If any thinks it nought but ease, let him do just as I did!
So now that Fortune's rough to me, wherever I may wander,
My thoughts all turn to Nuremberg; 'twere a snug place to dwell in,
For there the people know me well: I should have plenty yonder,
While here with strangers I have naught,—'tis simple truth I'm telling.
Of much I did in former years I have repented later;
If I had known what now I know, my wealth might now be greater.
I knew not mine own self and oft I've smarted for it fairly:
That's why the stranger to my house is bidden now so rarely.
"Come, go your ways, Sir guest I" say all, and so they set me speeding.
I wot not who would envy me this life that I am leading.