The Epitaph（1 / 2）

the epitaph

stop, passenger! my story's brief,

and truth i shall relate, man;

i tell nae common tale o' grief,

for matthew was a great man.

if thou uncommon merit hast,

yet spurn'd at fortune's door, man;

a look of pity hither cast,

for matthew was a poor man.

if thou a noble sodger art,

that passest by this grave, man;

there moulders here a gallant heart,

for matthew was a brave man.

if thou on men, their works and ways,

canst throw uncommon light, man;

here lies wha weel had won thy praise,

for matthew was a bright man.

if thou, at friendship's sacred ca',

wad life itself resign, man: