Translation Cons. Phil. Book 2 Metrum 4
Metrum 4
1 `He that would build
2 on a lasting resting-place;
3 who would be firm
4 to resist the blasts of the storming wind;
5 who seeks, too, safety where he may contemn
6 the surge and threatening of the sea;
7 must leave the lofty mountain's top,
8 and leave the thirsting sands.
9 The hill is swept by all the might
10 of the headstrong gale:
11 the sands dissolve,
12 and will not bear the load upon them.
13 Let him fly the danger
14 in a lot which is pleasant rest unto the eye:
15 let him be mindful to set his house
16 surely upon the lowly rock.
17 Then let the wind bellow,
18 confounding wreckage in the sea,
19 and thou wilt still be founded upon unmoving peace,
20 wilt be blessed in the strength of thy defence:
21 thy life will be spent in calmness,
22 and thou mayest mock the raging passions of the air.