Never say, I can't, my dear

1 Never say, "I can't, my dear;
Never say it:
When such words as those I hear
From the lips of boy or girl,
Oft they make me doubt and fear:
Never say it.

2 Boys and girls that nimbly play,
Never say it:
They can jump and run away,
Skip, and toss, and play their pranks;
Even dull ones, when they're gray,
Never say it:

3 Never mind how hard the task,
Never say it:
Find some one who knows, and ask,
Till you have your lessons learn'd;
Never mind how hard the task,
Never say it.

4 Men who do the noblest deeds
Never say it:
He who lacks the strength he needs,
Tries his best, and gets it soon,
And at last he will succeed--
Never say it.

5 But when the evil tempts to wrong,
Always say it:
In your virtue firm and strong,
Drive the tempter from your sight;
And when follies round you throng,
Ever say it.

6 When good actions call you near,
Never say it:
Drive away the rising fear,
Get your strength where good men do;
Seek it from a higher sphere,
Never say it.

Source: Linden Harp: a rare collection of popular melodies adapted to sacred and moral songs, original and selected. Illustrated. Also a manual of... #49a