The path of honour steadily pursue.

If some mishap howe'er should chance to glide;

And make you limp on one or t'other side,

Endeavour, of the fault, to make the best,

And keep the secret locked within your breast;

Your own consideration never lose;

Untruth 'tis pardonable then to use.

No doubt my pages nice advice supply;

Is't what I've followed?—No, you may rely!

THE CONTRACT