Moderation, of the Saint Indeed

Verse 1

Happy the man, whose cautious steps Still keep the golden mean, Whose life, by wisdom's rules well form'd Declares a conscience clean.

Verse 2

Not of himself he highly thinks, Nor acts the boaster's part; His modest tongue the language speaks Of his still humbler heart.

Verse 3

Not in base scandal's arts he deals, For truth dwells in his breast; With grief he sees his neighbour's faults, And thinks and hopes the best.

Verse 4

What blessings bounteous heaven bestows, He takes with thankful heart; With temperance he both eats and drinks, And gives the poor a part.

Verse 5

To sect or party, his large soul Disdains to be confin'd; The good he loves of every name And prays for all mankind.