Hymn CCVIII. Common Metre. Prudence

O 'TIS a lovely thing to see, A man of prudent heart! Whose thoughts and lips and life agree To act a useful part.

When envy, strife and wars begin In little angry souls; Mark how the sons of peace come in, And quench the kindling coals.

Their minds are humble, mild and meek, Nor does their anger rise; Nor passion moves their lips to speak, Nor pride exalts their eyes.

Their lives are prudence mix'd with love, Good works employ their day; They join the serpent with the dove, But cast the sting away.

Such was the saviour of mankind, Such pleasures he pursu'd; His manners gentle and refin'd, His soul divinely good.