68
THE TRUANT DOVE.
His wounds were heal'd.—His wanderings at an end,
And sober'd quite, the husband, and the friend,
In proof of reformation and contrition,
Gave to his race this prudent admonition;
Advice, which this, our fabling muse, presumes
May benefit the biped without plumes:
"If of domestic peace you are possess'd,
"Learn to believe yourself supremely bless'd;
"And gratefully enjoying your condition,
"Frisk not about, on whims and fancies strange,
"For ten to one, you for the worse will change:
"And 'tis most wise, to check all vain ambition—
"By such aspiring pride the angels fell;
"So love your wife, and know when you are well."
