How oft my spirit plumes her eager wings,

To seek a refuge from these tiresome things!

But like a wounded bird, she strives in vain,

Then sinks desponding to the earth again.

My heavenly Father! may my refuge be

Thine own almighty wings o’ershadowing me;

Thy shelter o’er my struggling spirit cast,

Till these calamities be overpast.

Then trusting in the covert of thy wings—

A peaceful shade—whence healing virtue springs,