Classic Poem

Night's gloomy shadow's now were seen,
And dark and dang'rous was the way,
With tatter'd garb and mournful mien!
Behold a pilgrim sadly stray!

No kind companion of his toil,
No sympathy his cares beguil'd,
He'd walk'd o'er many a dreary mile
And now must trace a desart wild.

Whilst many a sorrow bent him low,
And hopeless ev'ry step appear'd,
A sudden light diffus'd its glow
And music's softest strain was heard!

And lo a sweet celestial voice
(As Heavenly spirits better know)
With rapture, bade his soul rejoice
Tho' shudd'ring o'er a gulf of woe!

It spoke of mercy and of love,
Redeeming love, distinct and clear,
Of pardon from the realms above
And truths—he might for ever hear!

“Ah me!—he cries, if mercy dwells
“So free, so glorious, so divine,
“I'll trust my feet thro' midnight cells
“For life and hope may still be mine!”

His trembling lips tho' wan with death,
Now form the fervent heartfelt prayer
Nor heeds he now the wint'ry heath,
Since Heaven's own light has reach'd him there.