If children are taught the whole lesson of truth,
"'Twill bud in their childhood, and blossom in youth."
This maxim I learnt from the pen of a sage,
Whose vigor of mind was still green in old age:
And much do I wish that my charge may be found
On that ladder of learning where Truth is the ground;
The foundation so broad makes the ladder stand even;
And Truth's certain steps lead with safety to Heaven.
Then, first, I'll be careful what language I use,
That simple chaste words may express all my views:
I'll watch o'er my actions with studious aim,
That I may not, in future, deserve any blame;
That bad habits may not from my errors proceed,
Or my fair little plants be o'ergrown with a weed,
My word and my promise shall always abide.
And Truth and Sincerity sit side by side.
Should I promise a thing which I do not perform,
I lay the foundation for much future harm:
If children learn falsehood from nurses or mothers,
When grown up they will practise deceit upon others.
Then nought but the truth to my child shall be spoken:
If I once make a promise, it shall not be broken.
As the best thing of all, I will constantly try
To watch over myself with a vigilant eye;
My passions and faults so to mend or remove,
That all may be lost in obedience and love;
That, in practice, I never may knowingly swerve,
From the wishes of those whom I honour and serve:
But with eye singly fix'd, to my duty inclin'd,
Let me show forth a meek and a teachable mind;
On reproof or instruction not daring to trample,
May I always remember the force of example!