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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The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. | ||
SONG 4.—The Thief.
I
Why should I deprive my neighbourOf his goods against his will?
Hands were made for honest labour,
Not to plunder or to steal.
II
'Tis a foolish self-deceivingBy such tricks to hope for gain:
All that's ever got by thieving,
Turns to sorrow, shame, and pain.
III
Have not Eve and Adam taught usTheir sad profit to compute?
To what dismal state they brought us,
When they stole forbidden fruit?
IV
Oft we see a young beginnerPractise little pilf'ring ways,
Till grown up a harden'd sinner:
Then the gallows ends his days.
V
Theft will not be always hidden,Though we fancy none can spy:
When we take a thing forbidden,
God beholds it with his eye.
VI
Guard my heart, O God of heaven,Lest I covet what's not mine:
Lest I steal what is not given,
Guard my heart and hands from sin.
The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. | ||