SONG 21. Against Evil Company.
I
Why should I join with those in play
In whom I've no delight
Who curse and swear, but never pray;
Who call ill names and fight?
II
I hate to hear a wanton song,
Their words offend my ears;
I should not dare defile my tongue
With language such as theirs.
III
Away from fools I'll turn mine eyes;
Nor with the scoffers go:
I would be walking with the wise,
That wiser I may grow.
IV
From one rude boy that's us'd to mock,
They learn the wicked jest:
One sickly sheep infects the flock,
And poisons all the rest.
V
My God, I hate to walk or dwell
With sinful children here:
Then let me not be sent to hell,
Where none but sinners are.
