XIV. The Man and the Adder

He, that malicious men relieves,

His folly in a season grieves.

A Man, against himself humane,

Took up an Adder, that had lain

And stiffen’d in the frosty air,

And in his bosom placed with care,

Where she with speed recov’ring breath,

Her benefactor stung to death.

Another Adder near the place,

On asking why she was so base,

Was told, “’Tis others to dissuade

From giving wickedness their aid.”

Riley