A Selection from the Lyrical Poems of Robert Herrick

77. THE PLAUDITE, OR END OF LIFE

     If after rude and boisterous seas
     My wearied pinnace here finds ease;
     If so it be I've gain'd the shore,
     With safety of a faithful oar;
     If having run my barque on ground,
     Ye see the aged vessel crown'd;
     What's to be done?  but on the sands
     Ye dance and sing, and now clap hands.
     —The first act's doubtful, but (we say)
     It is the last commends the Play.