1. I will compel myself to forgive every sinner
Though his crimes against me may be immense

2. For people are but one of three kinds
Noble, ignoble, and like me holding on

3. As for the one above me, I acknowledge his merit
And in him truth and right prevail and stay

4. And the one below, if he speaks, I shun his speech
And if he chides, no challenger appears

5. And the one my equal, if he errs or forgets
I pardon, for merit in the free is arbiter