University of Virginia Library

This is the Judgement, which this day, my Musings,
Dictate (as I think, by divine infusings)
To some good purposes, if we repent
That Course, which yet obstructeth GOD's intent.
And, when that mad distemper is allay'd
Which frustrates all that can be writ or said.
These Principles, by musing, I assay
To keep up, in my self; and, as I may,
To build in others, thereby, to encrease
Their faithfulness, and settle common-peace.
These Principles, so long as that Pow'r lasts
Which is in being, though it dayly wastes,
Is much contemn'd; (and without likelihood
Of ought effecting for the publike good)
Compels me conscientiously to wave
All self-respects; and all those which I have
To them, whose welfare is to me more dear
Than mine own life, and all things mortal are,
Rather, than I those duties would neglect,
Which, I think, may the common-peace effect,
(Though duties nor exacted, nor regarded,
But, oft, with injuries, and spights rewarded.)
Yea, still, though most my purposes deride,
And, make me scorn'd of Fools on either side;
I, take up all occasions to re-mind them
Of needful Cautions which they cast behind them,
As now I do, and heretofore have done:
Sometimes, foretelling, what would fall thereon,
And, then, remembring them as I saw need,
How, that which was foretold them, did succeed;
That, them (if possible) reduce I may
Before it be too late, into that way,
Wherein they may be safe; for, they have bin
Long out, and likely, never to come in,
Till GOD, by what he seems about to do,
(Or, some such way) shall force them thereunto.