The Works of J. W. von Goethe/Volume 9/Paulo Post Futuri
PAULO POST FUTURI.
Weep ye not, ye children dear,
That as yet ye are unborn:
For each sorrow and each tear
Makes the father's heart to mourn.
Patient be a short time to it,
Unproduced, and known to none;
If your father cannot do it,
By your mother 'twill be done.
He who with life makes sport,
Can prosper never;
Who rules himself in nought,
Is a slave ever.