On Modesty

Since in the gospel I am taught, That all I say for want of thought, That each unmeaning idle word, As my accuser will be heard, When to my judge, God's only son, I answer for the sins I've done.

What shall I say, or how appear, If guilty words, not fit to hear, Have during life my lips defil'd: What shall excuse a shameless child, Who taught indecency to shun, Has with lewd words prophan'd her tongue.

Then let me cautiously refrain From shameful talk and converse vain; My tongue that God hath made should seek, At all times of his praise to speak: Or, heaven-ward while my soul I bear, Implore his gifts in servent prayer.