O spare that insect, thoughtless boy!
Let weakness still thy pity claim:
Delight to save, but ne'er destroy,
So shall compassion bless thy name.

The Pow'r who life to thee bestow'd,
The smallest creature bids to live;
Then dare not to offend thy God!
In youth, or age, we praise shou'd give.

Seek not to break great nature's chain,
Each link of which is fair to view;
Nought on the earth is form'd in vain--
O think in time this lesson true!

Then spare that insect, puny boy!
Weak reptile, to thy parents giv'n!
Delight to save, but ne'er destroy--
So hope may lead thy soul to Heav'n!