69
Since few of the race of women there be,
(Thou wert like to find among many but one),
Not friendless of any muse. 1090 (1089)
And now I aver that of mortals those
Who have never wed, or known children theirs,
Than parents are happier far.
For the childless at least, through not making essay
If sons be born for a joy or a curse, 1095 (1095)
Having none are safe from much miseries.
But such as have springing up in their homes
Sweet blossom and growth of children, them
I see worn with cares through the weary while:
First how to rear them in seemly wise 1100 (1101)
And how to leave the children estate;
Then next, whether they are spending themselves
For ignoble beings or for good,
That is left dark from their ken.
But one last ill of all to all men 1105 (1105)
Now will I speak. For if they have found
Sufficing estate, and their children have waxed
To the glory of youth, and moreover are good,
If their lot have chanced to them thus, lo Death,
Vanished back to his Hades again, 1110 (1110)
