Page:The Statues in the Block and Other Poems (1881).djvu/90

84 Straightforward speech is very certain good; But he who has not learned its rule is rude.

Boldness and firmness, these are virtues each, Noble in action, excellent in speech. But who is bold, without considerate skill, Rashly rebels, and has no law but will; While he called firm, illiterate and crass, With mulish stubbornness obstructs the pass.

The mean of soul are sure their faults to gloss, And find a secret gain in others' loss.

Applause the bold man wins, respect the grave; Some, only being not modest, think they're brave.