6. CORRUPTED YOUTH.

I've seen the morning sweet, serene, and bright,

Cheer'd by th' effulgence of the orb of day,

And ev'ry object drest in pure array;

But soon the splendor chang'd to dismal night.

Dark clouds and raging storms spread round affright,

While lightnings gleam, and thunders bring dismay.

And such too oft is Youth: thoughtless and gay,

With ev'ry charm to bless th' admiring sight.

But soon how chang'd! The face is mark'd with care,