Nurse's Reflections on the Advantages of Truth & Sincerity

If children are taught the whole lesson of truth, "'Twill bud in their childhood, and blossom in youth." This maxim I learnt from the pen of a sage, Whose vigor of mind was still green in old age: And much do I wish that my charge may be found On that ladder of learning where Truth is the ground; The foundation so broad makes the ladder stand even; And Truth's certain steps lead with safety to Heaven. Then, first, I'll be careful what language I use, That simple chaste words may express all my views: I'll watch o'er my actions with studious aim, That I may not, in future, deserve any blame; That bad habits may not from my errors proceed, Or my fair little plants be o'ergrown with a weed, My word and my promise shall always abide. And Truth and Sincerity sit side by side. Should I promise a thing which I do not perform, I lay the foundation for much future harm: If children learn falsehood from nurses or mothers, When grown up they will practise deceit upon others. Then nought but the truth to my child shall be spoken: If I once make a promise, it shall not be broken. As the best thing of all, I will constantly try To watch over myself with a vigilant eye; My passions and faults so to mend or remove, That all may be lost in obedience and love; That, in practice, I never may knowingly swerve, From the wishes of those whom I honour and serve: But with eye singly fix'd, to my duty inclin'd, Let me show forth a meek and a teachable mind; On reproof or instruction not daring to trample, May I always remember the force of example!