John Byrom

But scandal's my aversion--I protest
Against all evil speaking, even in jest.

But scandal's my aversion--I protest
Against all evil speaking, even in jest.

I tell the tale as it was told to me.

I tell the tale as it was told to me.

The point is plain as a pike staff.

The point is plain as a pike staff.

With more of thanks and less of thought,
I strive to make my matters meet;
To seek read more

With more of thanks and less of thought,
I strive to make my matters meet;
To seek what ancient sages sought,
Physic and food in sour and sweet,
To take what passes in good part,
And keep the hiccups from the heart.

With good and gentle-humored hearts
I choose to chat where'er I come
Whate'er the subject be that read more

With good and gentle-humored hearts
I choose to chat where'er I come
Whate'er the subject be that starts.
But if I get among the glum
I hold my tongue to tell the truth
And keep my breath to cool my broth.