Classic Poem

As some fair spirit — foe to noise and strife
Glides soft and quieting thro' the shades of life,
Methinks our H ENRIEITA'S form serene
Still-faintly glimmers in the faded scene!

Oh worthy to be his, whose honour'd name
Remains distinguish'd on the list of fame!
The great F ORDYCE — tis truly thine to prove
How just his pref'rence, how refin'd his love! —
Tho' languid sickness waste thy mortal frame
And many a tender sigh may urge its claim,
Ev'n there the christian suff'rer may we view
Emerging from her griefs and conflicts too,
We see the holy beam which marks her way
Pure from the fountain of eternal day,
One courteous glance to fleeting earth is given
But ev'ry serious hope is fixed on Heaven!