poems.
51
And p'rhaps he seeks a vain fatiguing joy
In those gay pleasures that dull time destroy!
Then farewell, health and happiness and ease:
Man is immortal, and these cannot please!
In those gay pleasures that dull time destroy!
Then farewell, health and happiness and ease:
Man is immortal, and these cannot please!
Oh, happier far the humbler state of those
Who in contentment's quiet shade repose!
Blest with a competence, they heed not care,
But aid the poor, and hospitably share
Their cheerful fireside with mutual friends,
Where cultur'd mind with mind so sweetly blends.
There sits calm industry with busy hands;
Those children learn to love the Lord's commands;
There every hope that cheers the human breast
Makes life serene, and points to heavenly rest!
Who in contentment's quiet shade repose!
Blest with a competence, they heed not care,
But aid the poor, and hospitably share
Their cheerful fireside with mutual friends,
Where cultur'd mind with mind so sweetly blends.
There sits calm industry with busy hands;
Those children learn to love the Lord's commands;
There every hope that cheers the human breast
Makes life serene, and points to heavenly rest!
Oh, bless'd religion! whate'er man's varied fate,
Tis thou alone canst make him truly great.
Oh, guide us safe through every care and ill;
Teach us to know thee, and thy laws fulfil;
Where poverty bends with supplicating knee,
May kind support and comfort flow from thee.
Where riches raise their proud, imposing head,
May gentle beamings of thy light be shed,
Till, won to gaze on heavenly truths here giv'n,
The heart be led to happiness and heaven.
Tis thou alone canst make him truly great.
Oh, guide us safe through every care and ill;
Teach us to know thee, and thy laws fulfil;
Where poverty bends with supplicating knee,
May kind support and comfort flow from thee.
Where riches raise their proud, imposing head,
May gentle beamings of thy light be shed,
Till, won to gaze on heavenly truths here giv'n,
The heart be led to happiness and heaven.
