Ballad—in the Gipsies

Would'st error leave, to follow truth, Would'st all thy cares should end, Turn here thy steps, misguided youth, And listen to a friend. Nor to Severity austere, Nor fond Indulgence, lean; But seek fair Moderation, here She holds the golden mean.

From that hand which profusely gives, Can any blessing fall? Or who a joy from that derives Which churl refuses all? Turn then, thy errors to atone, And steer a course between; Fair Moderation 'tis alone That holds the golden mean.