THE EMPTY PURSE What all despise, and all agree to curse, I view with pride and joy, an Empty Purse. When it was full, so was my heart of woe, I knew not what to do, nor where to go. I would be gen'rous, but I long'd for dress; Appearing great, I made myself look less. I that no kindred ever dar'd to claim; Found fifty kind relations of my name. No more could I complain of friends neglect, And daring falsehood hung around my neck; Amaz'd I cried, What means this mighty change; The forward fool replied, 'Tis nothing strange. Wretch, take my gold, I said, my greatest curse, Leave me an honest heart, and empty purse.