Munificent Men

Consistency may never trouble pets;    
Men are munificent: they draw the line,    
And if we follow duty, then it sets    
A path approved; but still I would incline
Myself o'er lap or knee or furniture;      
For where's the harm in zealous management?      
"Spare the rod and spoil the pet's" their cure -    
A remedy I'm used to - who'd resent      
Such overtures and interest? Who'll see  
Why should they really bother after all?  
 They know, better than pets do, what will be;      
And summer frolics, that precede the fall
Of one who's used to falling over laps,      
Are quite consistent - so, I'll count the slaps.