The Works of J. W. von Goethe/Volume 9/Proverbs ("A thousand flies did I at even slay")
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PROVERBS.
A thousand flies did I at even slay,
Yet did one wake me at the break of day.
Who serves the public is a sorry beast;
He frets himself; no one thanks him the least.
Wouldst thou nothing useless buy,
Be sure the fairs you go not nigh.
I could no greater sorrow own
Than live in Paradise alone.