Against Evil Company

Why should I join with those in Play,

 In whom I've no delight,

Who curse and swear, but never pray,

 Who call ill Names, and fight.

I hate to hear a wanton Song,

 Their Words offend my Ears:

I should not dare defile my Tongue

 With Language such as theirs.

Away from Fools I'll turn my Eyes,

 Nor with the Scoffers go;

I would be walking with the Wise,

 That wiser I may grow.

From one rude Boy that's us'd to mock

 Ten learn the wicked Jest;

One sickly Sheep infects the Flock,

 And poysons all the rest.

Composition date is unknown - the above date represents the first publication date.The lyrical form of this poem is abab.