Hymns for the Amusement of Children (1791)/Good-nature to Animals

by Christopher Smart

HYMN XXVII.
GOOD-NATURE to Animals.

The man of Mercy (says the Seer)
Shews mercy to his beast;
Learn not of churls to be severe,
But house and feed at least.

5Shall I melodious pris'ners take
From out the linnet's nest,
And not keep busy care awake,
To cherish ev'ry guest.

What shall I whip in cruel wrath
10The steed that bears me safe;
Or 'gainst the dog, who plights his troth,
For faithful service chafe.

In the deep waters throw thy bread,
Which thou shalt find again,
15With God's good interest on thy head,
And pleasure for thy pain.

Let thine industrious silk-worms reap
Their wages to the full,
Nor let neglected Dormice sleep
20To death within thy wool.

Know when the frosty weather comes,
'Tis charity to deal
To Wren and Redbreast all thy crumbs,
The remnant of thy meal.

25Tho' these some spirits think but light,
And deem indifferent things;
Yet they are serious in the sight
Of CHRIST, the King of kings.

 

Notes