AD MOODIUMTut! Moody, do not try to showTo gentlemen and ladiesThat if they have not "Faith," they'll goHeadlong to Hades.Faith is belief; and how can IHave that by being willing?This dime I cannot, though I try,Believe a shilling.Perhaps you can. If so, pray do—Believe you own it, also.But what seems evidence to youI may not call so.Heaven knows I'd like the Faith to thinkThis little vessel's contentsAre liquid gold. I see 'tis inkFor writing nonsense.Minds prone to Faith, however, mayCome now and then to sorrow:They put their trust in truth to-day,In lies to-morrow.No doubt the happiness is greatTo think as one would wish to;But not to swallow every bait,As certain fish do.To think a snake a cord, I hope,Would bolden and delight me;But some day I might think a ropeWould chase and bite me."Curst Reason! Faith forever blest!"You're crying all the season.Well, who decides that Faith is best?Why, Mr. Reason.He's right or wrong; he answers youAccording to your folly,And says what you have taught him to,Like any polly.
Tut! Moody, do not try to showTo gentlemen and ladiesThat if they have not "Faith," they'll goHeadlong to Hades.Faith is belief; and how can IHave that by being willing?This dime I cannot, though I try,Believe a shilling.Perhaps you can. If so, pray do—Believe you own it, also.But what seems evidence to youI may not call so.Heaven knows I'd like the Faith to thinkThis little vessel's contentsAre liquid gold. I see 'tis inkFor writing nonsense.Minds prone to Faith, however, mayCome now and then to sorrow:They put their trust in truth to-day,In lies to-morrow.No doubt the happiness is greatTo think as one would wish to;But not to swallow every bait,As certain fish do.To think a snake a cord, I hope,Would bolden and delight me;But some day I might think a ropeWould chase and bite me."Curst Reason! Faith forever blest!"You're crying all the season.Well, who decides that Faith is best?Why, Mr. Reason.He's right or wrong; he answers youAccording to your folly,And says what you have taught him to,Like any polly.