That your friends have discernment to see?

If you could descend to deserve my reproach,

The error lies sure not in me.

I mentioned the fault that in future your care,

Might secure from unguarded surprize;

I thought you had sense to rely on my love;

To resent it I deem’d you too wise.

The freedom of friendship should never displease,

Tho’ harsh its reproofs may appear;

Since often in public who flatter us most,