Who seeks by worthy deeds to gain renown for hire,

Whose heart, whose hand, whose purse is pressed to purchase his desire,

If any such there be, that thirsteth after fame,

Lo! Hear a means to win himself an everlasting name.

Who seeks by gain and wealth to advance his house and blood,

Whose care is great, whose toil no less, whose hope is all for good;

If any one there be that covets such a trade,

Lo! Hear the plan for commonwealth, and private gain is made.

He that for virtue’s sake will venture far and near,

Whose zeal is strong, whose practice true, whose faith is void of fear;

If any such there be, inflamed with holy care,

Here may he find a ready means his purpose to declare;

So that for each degree this treatise doth unfold

The path to fame, the proof of zeal, and way to purchase gold.

Sir Francis Drake, 1583