Miscellaneous works of George Wither :: :: University of Virginia Library

Ill words corrupt good manners; and I hear
That, you no scurrile language do forbear
VVhich either heighten may the indignation
And fury kindled in our English Nation,
Or, make them to be hated of your own;
As if you wholly resolute were grown,
So to divide both, that by no endeaver,
They might be reconcil'd again, for ever.
This fault, which to the vulgar I impute
VVill questionless produce a poisonous fruit,
And, therefore, though I truly may confess
My Countrymen have not offended less,
In that kind (and may peradventure take
Occasion from these Lines, a change to make
Within themselves) I, heartily intreat
Both you and them, his love to imitate
VVhose doctrines we profess, and bridle more
Their rude tongues, then they have done heretofore
That, from good words, there may at last proceed,
True reconcilement both in Word and Deed.
Of one thing more, put you in mind I would
(VVhich now to your remembrance bring I should)
VVere I not hopeful you oft minde it so,
As it becomes you, and repent it too,
And that, we shall give mutual satisfaction
For ev'ry scandal and injurious action,
On either charged, for which, to make even
'Tis in our power; the rest must be forgiven.