Lxvi. Reservedness In Judging Others Poem by Ellis Walker

Doth any one bathe earlier than the time
That's usually observed, or drink much wine;
Censure him not, nor say 'tis not well done,
Say only, he drinks much, or washeth soon.
For why should you, 'till you have understood
His reasons, judge his actions bad or good?
Perhaps he washeth early, with intent
Thus to refresh himself with watching spent.
Whate'er your grave sobriety may think,
In him perhaps 'tis temperance to drink;
Perhaps his constitution may require
More wine, his lamp more oil to feed its fire.
First know the reasons then you may proceed
With safety to dispraise, or praise the deed:
Thus will you never any action blame,
And then on second thought commend the same.