Classic Poem

My song shall be of mercy's reign,
And of the great tremendous day;
And I will consecrate the strain
To Christ's triumphant sway.

O make my notions strong and clear
Of ev'ry word thy laws promulge,
And that I may thy truth revere,
Her brightest rays indulge.

With thine illuminations blest,
When thou thy Spirit shalt impart,
I will prepare for such a guest
An open honest heart.

I basely will not undertake
To act injustice, or deceive;
I hate the vices of the snake,
To such I will not cleave.

Whoe'er defrauds, or goes beyond
His brother, him I will expel;
With churls I will not correspond,
Or with the wicked dwell.

Whoe'er with private caution smite
Behind their backs their neighbour's fame,
Their folly and their dastard spite
I from my soul disclaim.

Whose heart is hard, and stomach high,
And looks disdainful on the poor,
I will not to his word reply,
Nor his discourse endure.

By search industrious in my mind,
I cast about, and with my eyes
To find the good and well-inclin'd
For friends and for allies.

Whoe'er is studious to deserve,
And lives in innocence and pray'r,
O'er all my servants he shall serve,
And in my substance share.

But treachery, disguise, and fraud,
Shall not be seen beneath my roof,
And he that carries lies abroad,
Shall keep himself aloof.

I soon shall banish with the rod
Of justice all the worthless crew;
But I with meekness pray to God
That threats alone may do.