The Rich Fool Surprised

Verse 1

Deluded souls! who think to find A silid bliss below: Bliss! the fair flower of Paradise, On earth can never grow.

Verse 2

See how the foolish wretch is pleas'd, T' increase his wordly store; Too scanty now he finds his barns, And covets room for more.

Verse 3

"What shall I do?" distrest he cries, "This scheme will I pursue: "My scanty barns shall now come down, "I'll build them large and new."

Verse 4

"Here will I lay my fruits, and bid "My soul to take tis ease: "Eat, drink, be glad, my lasting store "Shall give what joys I please."

Verse 5

Scarce had he spoke, when lo! from heaven The Almighty made reply: "For whom dost thou provide, thou fool? "This night thyself shall die."

Verse 6

Teach me, my God, all earthly joys Are but an empty dream; And may I seek my bliss alone, In thee the good supreme!