C.M.
1
A little, ’tis a little word,
But much may in it dwell;
Then let the warning truth be heard:
O learn the lesson well.
2
The way of ruin thus begins,
Down, down, like easy stairs,
If conscience suffers little sins,
Soon larger ones it bears.
3
A little theft, a small deceit,
Too often leads to more;
’Tis hard at first, but tempts the feet,
As through an open door.
4
Just as the broadest rivers run
From small and distant springs,
The greatest crimes that men have done
Have grown from little things.
5
The child who early disobeys,
Stands now on slippery ground;
And who shall tell, in future days,
How low he may be found?
