Tho' high renown the youth had gain'd,
No flagrant crimes his life had stain'd;
No tool of falsehood, slave of passion,
But spoilt by CUSTOM, and the FASHION.
Tho' known among
He did not like to be in debt;
He shudder'd at the dicer's box,
Nor thought it very heterodox
That tradesmen shou'd be sometimes paid,
And promises be kept when made.
His utmost credit, as a sinner,
Was that he sometimes spoilt a dinner;
Ever, by system, came too late,
And made his choicest parties wait;
Yet 'twas a hopeful indication,
On which to found a reputation:
Small habits, well pursued betimes,
May reach the dignity of crimes.