Silence

Before thy betters with suspense,
Into thyself withdraw
Silence denotes superior sense,
And shews superior awe.

Keep blessing still within thy heart,
In meditation meek;
Thus thou'rt prepar'd to act thy part.
When urg'd at length to speak.

When words break forth not duly weigh'd
From out the babbler's tongue,
Full many a mournful mischief's made,
Full many a conscience stung.

Then pray with David, that the Lord
Wou'd keep himself the door;
And all things from thy lips award,
That make thy brother sore.

But if there be a point to praise
Some godly deed of price,
With all thy might thy plaudits raise,
Here silence were a vice.