1. Alas, for every vain hopeful
Of distant hope, and greedy dreams,

2. Who longs for lasting days, persisting,
Until the Judge's will prevails, then what avails?

3. His body sheds its vestments fair,
Once joined, dispersed as by knives,

4. Grey hairs descend on his head,
Baldness succeeds youthful locks.

5. His upright form bends double,
His limbs acquire a limp.

6. Who then takes joy in length of days
When such strange fates arise?