Benjamin Franklin included a version of this proverb, preceded by the words, “A little neglect may breed
great mischief,” in Poor Richard's Almanack in 1758 when the American colonies were at odds with the
English Parliament. During World War II, this verse was framed and hung on the wall of the AngloAmerican
Supply Headquarters in London to remind everyone the importance of seemingly trivial repair
parts and inventory replenishment.