PRAYER OF MR. WYNKOOP.
Late of Kingston (Esopus) during the Loss of his Sight.
Father of light and life, Creator wise!
Great benefactor, and support of all!
In frowns and mercies, both divinely kind;
While this hand chastens, that diffuses bliss,
O teach my soul chearful resignation
To thy will; calm content and smiling patience;
Forgive my sins, then tho’ deprived of vision,
Of seeing thee, in all the wondrous works
In air, earth, sea and skies, supreme perfection
Will I kiss the rod and bless the smiter;
Will I thank thy divine correcting hand,
Which might have made me infinitely worse,
For all the various blessings I enjoy;
For tender parents, friends, relations kind,
A virtuous spouse and blooming offspring;
For plentious food and raiment. My soul submit,
Think the decrees of Heaven are wise and just,
Most beneficial to thyself, and all.
Father! thy will is best and be it done.