Think it no excuse, boys,
Merging into men,
That you do a wrong act
"Only now and then."
Better to be careful
As you go along,
If you would be manly,
Capable and strong.
Many a wretched sot, boys,
That one daily meets
Drinking from the beer-kegs,
Living in the streets,
Or at best, in quarters
Worse than any pen,
Once was dressed in broadcloth
Drinking now and then.
When you have a habit
That is wrong, you know,
Knock it off at once, lads,
With a sudden blow.
Think it no excuse, boys,
Merging into men,
That you do a wrong act
"Only now and then."