There is no greater sign of a general decay of virtue in a
nation, than a want of zeal read more

There is no greater sign of a general decay of virtue in a
nation, than a want of zeal in its inhabitants for the good of
their country.

Zeal is fit only for the wise but is found mostly in fools

Zeal is fit only for the wise but is found mostly in fools

My hat is in the ring.

My hat is in the ring.

For zeal's a dreadful termagant,
That teaches saints to tear and cant.

For zeal's a dreadful termagant,
That teaches saints to tear and cant.

But his zeal
None seconded, as out of season judged,
Or singular and rash.

But his zeal
None seconded, as out of season judged,
Or singular and rash.

For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not
according to knowledge.

For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not
according to knowledge.

It is false zeal to keep truth while wounding charity

It is false zeal to keep truth while wounding charity

Poets heap virtues, painters gems, at will,
And show their zeal, and hide their want of skill.

Poets heap virtues, painters gems, at will,
And show their zeal, and hide their want of skill.

If I had obeyed God, as I have obeyed him, He would not have
punished me.

If I had obeyed God, as I have obeyed him, He would not have
punished me.