The dire infection came: - they died,
And I was cursed - as I am now; -
Nay, frown not, angry friend, - allow
That I was deeply, sorely tried;
Hear then, and you must wonder how
I could such storms and strifes abide.
Storms! - not that clouds embattled make,
When they afflict this earthly globe;
But such as with their terrors shake
Man’s breast, and to the bottom probe;