"I shake my head, to let all know
This world is but a fleeting show.
Men's days are flying with quick wings;
So take no joy in earthly things.
"Yet men will fix their hearts below
Upon the pleasures that must go.
Their joy is gone when they are dead;
And that is why I shake my head."
This touched King Solomon in a tender place, for he was himself rather
fond of earthly delights. He sighed, and asked again--
"O most ancient and wise Owl! tell me why you never eat grain?"