SONG XXI. Against Evil Company.

SONG XXI.

Against Evil Company.

I.

WHY should I join with those in Play, In whom I've no Delight; Who curse and swear, but never pray; Who call ill Names and fight?

II.

I hate to hear a wanton Song; Their Words offend mine Ears; I should not dare defile my Tongue With Language such as theirs.

III.

Away from Fools I'll turn mine Eyes; Nor with the Scoffers go; I would be walking with the Wise, That wiser I may grow.

IV.

From one rude Boy that's us'd to mock, They learn the wicked Jest: One sickly Sheep infects the Flock, And poisons all the rest.

V.

My God, I hate to walk, or dwell With sinful Children here; Then let me not be sent to Hell, Where none but Sinners are.