The _Laurell_, which is given for a Crowne (To men deserving Glory, and renowne) Is figur’d here, those noble deeds to show, For which, the _Wreaths_ of _Honour_, we bestow. Two _Serpents_ (WISDOME’S _Emblems_) twisted are About this branch of _Lawrell_, to declare, That, _Wisdome_ is the surest meanes to save Our Names and Actions, from _Oblivion’s_ Grave. The _Snakes_ are _two_, perhaps, to signifie That _Morall-wit_, and _Christian-policie_ (Vnited both together) doe contrive The safest _guard_, and best _preservative_. Consider this, all yee, that trust your _Names_ To Marble Monuments; or, mount your _Fames_ By those poore meanes, which Fooles and Knaves pursue; And, may effect as easily as you: Nay, with more ease; and, overtop you too, When you have done the best, your wits can doe. I say, consider this; and, let the _Pen_ Of learned, wise, and understanding men, Renowne your worths, and register the story Of your deserved, and, well-gotten glory; Lest, else, it suffer close-imprisonments, Within the walls of such poore _Monuments_, As oft are built, to leave it quite forgotten, Whose bones they cover’d, e’re those bones be rotten. But, you shall best preserve your _Honest-fame_, Your _Workes_, your _Hopes_, and _Honours_ of your _Name_, If you your selves be wise; and, so provide That _Prudence_, all your _Workes_, and _Speeches_ guide. _Good =Hopes=, we best accomplish may, By =lab’ring= in a =constant-Way=._ [Illustration: LABORE ET CONSTANTIA. ILLVSTR. IX. _Book. 3_]