Classic Poem

Since, every day, with new delight , I see,
These lively little images of thee;
I would their tender minds to virtue , bow,
And have 'em never less belov'd, than now ,
Take then, thou gentle partner of my care!
A glass , to show thee, what these infants are:
By this just light , direct their opening way,
Lest road-met folly lead their steps astray:
First, teach 'em, what, to heav'n's high throne, they owe,
Then — whence, on earth , the wise man's comforts flow:
Teach 'em, while fortune smiles, to use her right ,
And nobly scorn her, when she takes her flight .
The rare-found charms of friendship let 'em know,
And learn, that love's soft dress is lin'd with woe .
Form, with progressive care, the wid'ning mind,
And, growing, bid 'em leave the world behind:
'Till, having learnt, whate'er becomes the free ,
You, lastly, teach 'em, how to charm , like thee.