Page:Songs, Legends, and Ballads.djvu/57

Rh Be silent and safe—silence never betrays you;
 * Be true to your word and your work and your friend;

Put least trust in him who is foremost to praise you,
 * Nor judge of a road till it draw to the end.

Stand erect in the vale, nor exult on the mountain;
 * Take gifts with a sigh—most men give to be paid;

"I had" is a heartache, "I have" is a fountain,—
 * You're worth what you saved, not the million you made.

Trust toil not intent, or your plans will miscarry;
 * Your wife keep a sweetheart, instead of a tease;

Rule children by reason, not rod; and, mind, marry
 * Your girl when you can—and your boy when you please.