Britten: Gloriana, Op. 53 / Act 1 Scene 2: 12. Cecil'S Song Of Government

The art of government is in procrastination
And in silence and delay
Blazing bonfires left to burn
Will soon consume themselves away

Of evils choose the least
Great foes will tumble down in time
Or wither one by one
He that rules must hear and see
What's openly or darkly done

All that is not enough
There comes a moment when

To rule is to be swift and bold
Know at last the time to strike
It may be when the iron is cold