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V.
Reader, attend—whether thy soul
Soars fancy's flights beyond the pole,
Or darkling-grubs this earthly hole,
Is low pursuit;
Know, prudent, cautious,self-control,
Is Wisdom's root.
A PRAYER IN THE PROSPECT OF DEATH,
I.
O Thou unknown, Almighty Cause
Of all my hope and fear?
In whose dread presence, ere an hour,
Perhaps, I must appear!
II.
If I have wander'd in those paths
Of life I ought to shun;
As something, loudly, in my breast,
Remonstrates I have done-
III.
Thou know'st that Thou hast formed me
With passions wild and strong;
And list'ning to their witching voice
Has often led me wrong.
IV.
Where human Weakness has came short,
Or Frailty steps aside.
Do Thou, All Good! for such Thou art,
In shades of darkness hide.
V.
Where with intention I have err'd,
No other plea I have,
But, Thou art Good—and Goodness still
Delighteth to forgive.
FINIS.
