SONNET TO ADVERSITY.
Neglected Nymph, that with unpitied sigh
Turn’st thy white cheek to every striking gale,
While the base crew with wounding taunts assail,
And Worthless Wealth averts his wint’ry eye!
Yet the rich virtues follow in thy strain,
Thine is Compassion’s tear, Submission’s calm,
Inspiring Hope, Religion’s healing balm,
And mild Philosophy’s instructive strain.
Thine is the plaintive Poet’s touching song,
That tunes with melody the chords of Care,
To smile forgiveness on the cureless wrong,
And heal the wounded spirit of Despair.
Ah, may I ne’er forget thy voice divine,
But bless the hour, that made its precepts MINE.