Reproach will seldom mend the young, <br /> If they are left to need it; <br />The breath of love must stir the tongue, <br /> If you would have them heed it. <br /> <br />How oft we see a child caressed <br /> For little faults and failings, <br />Which should have been at first suppressed <br /> To save the after railings! <br /> <br />If, when the heart would go astray, <br /> You would the passion smother, <br />You must not tear the charm away, <br /> But substitute another. <br /> <br />Thus it is pleasant to be led, <br /> If he who leads will measure <br />The heart's affection by the head, <br /> And make pursuit a pleasure.<br /><br />David Bates<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/chiding/
