On the goods that are not thine,
Little child, lay not a finger;
Round thy neighbour's better things
Let no wistful glances linger.
Pilfer not the smallest thing;
Touch it not, howe'er thou need it,
Though the owner have enough,
Though he know it not, nor need it.
Taste not the forbidden fruit,
Though resistance be a trial;
Grasping hand and roving eye,
Early teach them self-denial.
Upright heart and honest name
To the poorest are a treasure;
Better than ill-gotten wealth,
Better far than pomp and pleasure.
Poor and needy though thou art,
Gladly take what God has given;
With clean hands and humble heart,
Passing through this world to heaven.