An atheist's laugh 's a poor exchange For Deity offended!

Why has a religious turn of mind always a tendency to narrow and harden the heart?

O, wad some Power the giftie gie us To see oursels as others see us! It wad frae monie a blunder free us, An' foolish notion.

And O! be sure to fear the Lord alway, And mind your duty, duly, morn and night; Lest in temptation's path ye gang astray, Implore His counsel and assisting might: They never sought in vain that sought the Lord aright.

The poor inhabitant below Was quick to learn and wise to know And keenly felt the friendly glow And softer flame; But thoughtless follies laid him low, And stain'd his name!

Even every ray of hope destroyed and not a wish to gild the gloom.

Some wee short hour ayont the twal.