Alleviations of Fate's stern plan,
The softening spirits in rear and van
Of Labour's march through our Life's brief span,
If seen, were glimpsed but dimly.
Weariness followed, and dulness gloomed,
On the path of mortals to hunger doomed,
And poverty the spirit entombed
As in all too premature charnel;
The ache of limb and the fret of brain,
The slow weak pulse, and the long dull pain,