Chambers's Journal of Popular Literature, Science, and Art, No. 730

Let bygones be bygones; if bygones were cloudedBy aught that occasioned a pang of regret,Oh, let them in darkest oblivion be shrouded;'Tis wise and 'tis kind to forgive and forget.Let bygones be bygones, and good be extractedFrom ill over which it is folly to fret;The wisest of mortals have foolishly acted —The kindest are those who forgive and forget.Let bygones be bygones; oh, cherish no longerThe thought that the sun of Affection has set;Eclipsed for a moment, its rays will be stronger,If you, like a Christian, forgive and forget.Let bygones be bygones; your heart will be lighter,When kindness of yours with reception has met;The flame of your love will be purer and brighterIf, Godlike, you strive to forgive and forget.Let bygones be bygones; oh, purge out the leavenOf malice, and try an example to setTo others, who craving the mercy of heaven,Are sadly too slow to forgive and forget.Let bygones be bygones; remember how deeplyTo heaven's forbearance we all are in debt;They value God's infinite goodness too cheaplyWho heed not the precept, 'Forgive and forget.'