Speak gently! — It is better far

To rule by love, than fear —

Speak gently — let not harsh words mar

The good we might do here!

Speak gently! — Love doth whisper low

The vows that true hearts bind;

And gently Friendship’s accents flow;

Affection’s voice is kind.

Speak gently to the little child!

Its love be sure to gain;

Teach it in accents soft and mild: —

It may not long remain.

Speak gently to the young, for they

Will have enough to bear —

Pass through this life as best they may,

’T is full of anxious care!

Speak gently to the aged one,

Grieve not the care-worn heart;

The sands of life are nearly run,

Let such in peace depart!

Speak gently, kindly, to the poor;

Let no harsh tone be heard;

They have enough they must endure,

Without an unkind word!

Speak gently to the erring — know,

They may have toiled in vain;

Perhaps unkindness made them so;

Oh, win them back again!

Speak gently! — He who gave his life

To bend man’s stubborn will,

When elements were in fierce strife,

Said to them, ‘Peace, be still.’

Speak gently! — ’t is a little thing

Dropped in the heart’s deep well;

The good, the joy, which it may bring,

Eternity shall tell.