The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. Containing, besides his Sermons, and Essays on miscellaneous subjects, several additional pieces, Selected from his Manuscripts by the Rev. Dr. Jennings, and the Rev. Dr. Doddridge, in 1753: to which are prefixed, memoirs of the life of the author, compiled by the Rev. George Burder. In six volumes |
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SONG 20. Against Idleness and Mischief.
I
How doth the little busy beeImprove each shining hour,
And gather honey all the day
From every op'ning flow'r!
II
How skilfully she builds her cell!How neat she spreads the wax!
And labours hard to store it well
With the sweet food she makes.
III
In works of labour, or of skill,I would be busy too;
For Satan finds some mischief still
For idle hands to do.
IV
In books, or work, or healthful play,Let my first years be past;
That I may give for ev'ry day
Some good account at last.
| The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. | |