Strange Comet, with thy long, curv'd tail so bright,
Hast thou before e'er visited our sphere?
From what dark depths of space dost thou draw near?
What is thy aim thus blazing on our sight?
Hast thou a charge with pestilence to smite?
Full many an eye now looks on thee with fear;
But unknown good may spring from thy career
And nigh approach to the great fount of light.
From guiding hand of God, enthron'd above,
Thou art not free; thou comest at his will,