To-morrow’s task to-day conclude

Death comes, and makes a man his prey,

A man whose powers are yet unspent;

Like one on gathering flowers intent,

Whose thoughts are turned another way.
Begin betimes to practise good,

Lest fate surprise thee unawares

Amid thy round of schemes and cares;

To-morrow’s task to-day conclude.*

Mahābhārata.