Classic Poem

 A LAMB , young, simple, pert, and vain,
His dam's fond care could scarce restrain,
Unheedful he, but rashly bold,
Would frequent wander from the fold;
With scorn the watchful dog he view'd,
As he his constant toil pursu'd,
“This is,” said he, “esteem'd our friend,
“Yet, can he answer any end?
“I hear his voice rais'd high indeed,
“But after all, where is the need?
“He's prais'd, and fed with daily care,—
“Happy for him to get such fare!”
 His dam, who heard him, thus reply'd,
“Cease; nor a real friend deride.
“The Dog is fed with care we know;
“Had he not worth, would it be so?
“Learn then to trace his service right—
“Our guide by day, our guard at night.
“For this it is he gains regard,
“And sure such care deserves reward!”
 So, prudent, said th' experienc'd dame;
But so thought not the wanton Lamb.
Who strait resolv'd that very day,
Far from the flock and Dog to stray;
That thus at once he might appear
No guard to need, no danger fear.
 The Wolf, in wickedness grown old,
At distance long had view'd the fold,
And round it oftentimes had crept,
In hope of prey, while Lambs had slept;
Tho' yet th' attempt he did not dare,
He heard the Dog, and knew his care.
But when our Lamb alone he sees,
Swift on his prey he darts with ease;
The Lamb, betray'd by wild desires,
His dam remembers, and expires.
Thus we by sad experience know
The wilful never want for woe .