Classic Poem

ON THE DEATH OF HER FATHER .

Though nature's feelings rend thy heart,
Shock'd by a parent's death;
Though friendship could not turn the dart
Which took his vital breath;

The record of my feeble pen,
Engraven on thy breast,
May welcome to thee once again
The pillow of thy rest.

Though quick the change, and prompt the stroke
That snapt the tender chain
Of life, it saved him from the yoke
Of slow consuming pain.

With much to hope and nought to fear
Beyond the silent tomb,
Peaceful was once his dwelling here;
More peaceful now his home.

To him whose task was daily done,
Death could be no surprise;
For well he knew that life's last sun
Would with his Saviour rise.

The splendour of that promised morn
What numbers can set forth,
When robes of glory shall adorn
The majesty of worth?

Still on his manly face and form
Thy memory long may dwell,
And still affection's yearnings warm
Thy wounded bosom swell.

Nature such feelings will betray,
And own the tribute due;
But faith should wipe the tear away,
And inward peace renew.

The path a righteous sire has trod
Distinctly points to heaven:
The grace and goodness of his God
To thee are also given.

That path observed, what rapture sweet,
Beyond my skill to paint,
Thy panting soul shall feel to greet
Thy father in the saint!