Classic Poem

Who are the Spirits watching by the dead?
Faith, from whose eyes a solemn light is shed;
And Hope, with far-off sunshine on the head.

The influence of the dead is that of Heaven;
To it a majesty of power is given,
Working on earth with a diviner leaven.

To them belongs all high and holy thought;
The mind whose mighty empire they have wrought;
And grief, whose comfort was by angels brought.

And gentle Pity comes, and brings with her
Those pensive dreams that their own light confer;
While Love stands watching by the sepulchre.