A Better State

Believe me, Stella, when you show

That true contempt for things below,

Nor prize your life for other ends,

Than merely to oblige your friends;

Your former actions claim their part,

And join to fortify your heart.

For Virtue, in her daily race,

Like Janus, bears a double face;

Looks back with joy where she has gone

And therefore goes with courage on:

She at your sickly couch will wait,

And guide you to a better state.