A wingèd Virtue, through the ethereal sky,

From world to world unwearied does he fly? 50

Or curious trace the long laborious maze

Of Heaven’s decrees, where wondering angels gaze?

Does he delight to hear bold seraphs tell

How Michael battled, and the dragon fell;

Or, mixed with milder cherubim, to glow 55

In hymns of love, not ill essayed below?

Or dost thou warn poor mortals left behind,

A task well suited to thy gentle mind?