From a Truant to His Friends

'T IS not in cells, or a sequester'd cot,
The mind and morals properly expand;
Let Youth step forward to a busier spot,
Led by Discretion's cool conducting hand.

To learn some lessons from the schools of man,
(Forgive me!) I forsook my darling home;
Not from a light, an undigested plan,
Nor from a youthful appetite to roam.

In your affections—(let resentment fly!)
Restore me to my long-accustom'd place;
Receive me with a kind, forgiving eye,
And press me in the parent's fond embrace.