Nay, Speak No Ill

Author: Charles Swain

This chart compares versions of the English text of Nay, Speak No Ill, as it appears in different publications.

Minor punctuation, capitalization, and spelling differences are shown, in addition to more substantial differences in words, phrases, or verses.

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1. Nay, speak no ill; a kindly wordf11. Nay, speak no ill; a kindly word 2Can never leave a sting behind;2Can never leave a sting behind; 3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard 4Is far beneath a noble mind.4Is far beneath a noble mind. 5Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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1. Nay, speak no ill; a kindly word 2Can never leave a sting behind;2Can never leave a sting behind; 3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard 4Is far beneath a noble mind.4Is far beneath a noble mind. 5Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Can never leave a sting behind;2Can never leave a sting behind; 3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard 4Is far beneath a noble mind.4Is far beneath a noble mind. 5Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Can never leave a sting behind; 3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard 4Is far beneath a noble mind.4Is far beneath a noble mind. 5Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard3And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard 4Is far beneath a noble mind.4Is far beneath a noble mind. 5Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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And, oh, to breathe each tale we’ve heard 4Is far beneath a noble mind.4Is far beneath a noble mind. 5Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Is far beneath a noble mind.4Is far beneath a noble mind. 5Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Is far beneath a noble mind. 5Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Full oft a better seed is sown5Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Full oft a better seed is sown 6By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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By choosing thus the kinder plan,6By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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By choosing thus the kinder plan, 7For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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For, if but little good is known,7For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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For, if but little good is known, 8Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Still let us speak the best we can.8Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Still let us speak the best we can. 99 102. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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2. Give me the heart that fain would hide,102. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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2. Give me the heart that fain would hide, 11Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Would fain another’s faults efface.11Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Would fain another’s faults efface. 12How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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How can it please the human pride12How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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How can it please the human pride 13To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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To prove humanity but base?13To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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To prove humanity but base? 14No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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No, let us reach a higher mood,14No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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No, let us reach a higher mood, 15A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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A nobler estimate of man;15A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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A nobler estimate of man; n16Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Be earnest in the search for goodn16Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Be earnest in the search for good, 17And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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And speak of all the best we can.17And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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And speak of all the best we can. 1818 n193. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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3. Then speak no ill but lenient ben193. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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3. Then speak no ill, but lenient be 20To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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To other’s failings as your own.20To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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To others’ failings as your own. 21If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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If you’re the first a fault to see,21If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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If you’re the first a fault to see, 22Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Be not the first to make it known,22Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Be not the first to make it known, 23For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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For life is but a passing day;23For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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For life is but a passing day; t24No lip may tell how brief its span;t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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No lip may tell how brief its span; class="diff_next">t24No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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No lip may tell how brief its span. 25Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Then, O the little time we stay25Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Then, oh, the little time we stay, 26Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Let’s speak of all the best we can.26Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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Let’s speak of all the best we can. 2727
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The text of this song is in public domain (originally published before 1929, or published before 1964 and not renewed).