Classic Poem

To self-admiring folly burn
The frankincense of lying praise,
Let the proud scorner's anger spurn
The friendly censor of his ways.

Come parents, pastors, faithful friends;
In merciful alliance join
To smite me, when my acToffends,
Or when to evil I incline .

Your wounds are sanative; the smart
I welcome, 'tis a pleasing pain.
You lance the ulcer in my heart,
Sweet health of mind by you I gain.

Ye fools, why will your pride refuse
The warning voice, the guiding hand?
Embrace rebuke, wise counsel chuse;
Or perish, with the froward Band.