I stand in mine own Master's praise, or fall to His reproof. If thou lovest, help me with thy blessing; if otherwise, mine shall be for thee; If thou approvest, heed my words; if otherwise, in kindness be my teacher. Many mingled thoughts for self have warped my better aim; Many motives tempted still, to toil for pride or praise : Alas, I have loved pride and praise, like others worse or worthier; But hate and fear them now, as snakes that fastened on my hand : Scævolo burnt both hand and crime; but Paul flung the viper on the fire; He shook it off, and felt no harm: so be it! I renounce them. Rebuke then, if thou wilt rebuke, — but neither hastily, nor harshly; Or, if thou wilt commend, be it honestly, of right: I work for God and good. A Thousand Lines. Prologue. My heart presents her gift; in turn, of thee Kindly to spend with these my thoughts and me Full of young hopes I dare the tented field! Sloth. "A LITTLE more sleep, a little more slumber, Rare is the happiness thus to be raptured In the soft nets of my beautiful brain ! Touch not these curtains! -your hand will be tearing Cease your dull lecture on cares and employment, Leave me to peace, let me husband enjoyment,— Of the sweet voice in my beautiful brain! Hush, for the halo of calmness is spreading Hush,- for the angel of comfort is shedding Hush,- for new slumbers are over me stealing, Activity. Open the casement, and up with the Sun ! Over the hills his chariot is roll'd, Banner'd with glory, and burnish'd with gold, Bridegroom of Earth, and brother or Time! Day hath broken, joyous and fair; Lo, the wondering world awakes, With its rosy-tipp'd mountains and gleaming lakes, With its fields and cities, deserts and trees, Its calm old cliffs, and its sounding seas, In all their gratitude blessing HIM Break away boldly from Sleep's leaden chain; Up, up, to bless man, and thy Master to serve, Gird thee, and do thy watching well, Sloth and Slumber never had part In the warrior's will, or the patriot's heart; Slumber and sloth thrall thee no more. |