For evil news rides post, while good news baits.

John Milton (1608-1674): Samson Agonistes. Line 1538.

Thousands at his bidding speed,

And post o'er land and ocean without rest;

They also serve who only stand and wait.

John Milton (1608-1674): On his Blindness.

When vice prevails, and impious men bear sway,

The post of honour is a private station.

Joseph Addison (1672-1719): Cato. Act iv. Sc. 4.

Give me, kind Heaven, a private station,

A mind serene for contemplation:

Title and profit I resign;

The post of honour shall be mine.

John Gay (1688-1732): Fables. Part ii. The Vulture, the Sparrow, and other Birds.