Page:The Poems of William Blake (Shepherd, 1887).djvu/81

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THE THIRD.
59

William.


Now, I always thought that a man might be
guilty of doing wrong without knowing it was wrong.

Dagworth.


Thou art a natural philosopher, and knowest
truth by instinct; while reason runs aground, as
we have run our argument. Only remember,
William, all have it in their power to know the
motives of their own actions, and 'tis a sin to act
without some reason.

William.


And whoever acts without reason may do a great
deal of harm without knowing it.
 

Dagworth.


Thou art an endless moralist.

William.


Now there's a story come into my head, that I
will tell your honour, if you'll give me leave.
 

Dagworth.


No, William, save it till another time; this is no
time for story-telling; but here comes one who is
as entertaining as a good story.