The Truants

1 Now is it not a pity that such pretty girls and boys
Should spend their time in idleness, or sporting with their toys?

Chorus:
But I won't stay from school, no, I won't stay from school;
I'm so fond of learning that I will not stay from school.

2 I'm sure they cannot realize what a pleasure 'tis to learn,
Or never willingly would they from school and study turn. [Chorus]

3 I wish I could persuade them all, now in their youthful days,
To turn away from foolishness, and walk in wisdom's ways. [Chorus]

4 But if they will not come with me, I will not go with them,
Lest mingling with bad company, I lose truth's diadem. [Chorus]

5 I'll make my resolutions now, to do whate'er is right,
E'er shunning every sinful way, and walking in the right. [Chorus]

Source: Linden Harp: a rare collection of popular melodies adapted to sacred and moral songs, original and selected. Illustrated. Also a manual of... #114