Thus will compare Hope’s sketch of bliss to be

With the undreamed of, sad reality;

Yet this and more the afflicted heart may bear,

If Faith, celestial visitant, be there,

Whispering of greener shores, of purer skies,

Of flowers unfading, love that never dies,

A glimpse of joy to come in mercy given,

The eternal sunshine of approving Heaven.

1818. E. P. K.

ON READING “GIBBON’S ROME.”