Neither gold nor grandeur

Neither gold nor grandeur make us happy.

These two divinities only respond to our vows

with very uncertain treasures and uneasy pleasures.

This is the eternal refuge from devouring care.

The wise man lives there in peace, wandering through the forest.

He sees at his feet the favourites of kings.

He reads on the brows of those surrounded by vain luxury

that fortune sells that which we think she gives.

When he nears his goal and leaves this rest

nothing troubles his end. It is the evening of a fine day.