Wrapping the world in general gloom,

As if her God's were Nature's tomb;

While sheeted ghosts before my gaze

Passed, flitting 'mid the dreary maze,

As if rejoicing at the day

When death—their king—o'er Heaven had sway.

In glistening charnel damps arrayed,

They seemed to gibber round my head,

Through night's drear void directing me

Toward still and solemn Calvary,