Divine Songs for the Use of Children (1847)/XVIII. Against Evil Company
XIII.—Against Evil Company.
1Why 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.
2I hate to hear a wanton song; their words offend my ears;I should not dare defile my tongue with language such as theirs.
3Away from fools I'll turn my eyes, nor with the scoffers go;I would be walking with the wise, that wiser I may grow.
4From one rude boy that's used to mock, ten learn the wicked jest;One sickly sheep infects the flock, and poisons all the rest.
5My God, I hate to walk or dwell with sinful children here;Then let me not be sent to hell, where none but sinners are.