Epitaph For Charles II

John Wilmot, Earl Of Rochester, 1647-1680

Here lies a Great and Mighty King,
Whose Promise none rely'd on,
He never said a Foolish thing
Nor ever did a Wise one.

 

Date of composition uncertain, but composed while Charles II was still living, who in response is reputed to have replied:
"That is very true, for my words are my own, but my acts, my ministers' "