And the hope of enjoyment is vain.
If to error betrayed, then delay not to own
The crime which has robb’d you of peace;
As penitence only can wash out the stain,
Or cause your vexation to cease.
When the ermine of conscience is spotted by guilt,
Most severe are the pangs of the mind;
’Tis a woe which no sympathy e’er can relieve,
Nay, is hurt by a treatment too kind.
To feel undeserving of friendly esteem,