200
THE QUATRAINS OF
297.
This world a hollow pageant you should deem;
All wise men know things are not what they seem;
Be of good cheer, and drink, and so shake off
This vain illusion of a baseless dream.
298.
With maids stately as cypresses, and fair
As roses newly plucked, your wine-cups share,
Or e'er Death's blasts shall rend your robe of flesh
Like yonder rose leaves, lying scattered there!
299.
Cast off dull care, melancholy brother!
Woo the sweet daughter of the grape, no other;
The daughter is forbidden, it is true,
But she is nicer than her lawful mother!
297. L. N. All earthly existence is "Maya."
298. C. L. N. A. I. J. The Lucknow commentator says dáman i gul means the maid's cheek.
