Classic Poem

So lovely, so belov'd! — remov'd so soon,
Just as terrestial bliss had reach'd its noon!
What pangs must love, must nature feel severe
When ev'n the stranger's eye must drop a tear,
And mark the mournful spot, with grief opprest,
Where lov'd Penelope retires to rest! —
Where, in sad sympathy, alas, shall blend
The mother, husband, brother, sister, friend!
There blooming hope from sweet delusion torn
Taste the bright blossoms, once so gaily worn.
No! gentle hope! — preserve them, still to shed
Their cordial fragrance round the infant's head.
Perhaps — some future day, with smiles serene,
'Twill soothe fond memory with its mother's mien.
Tell it (when rip'ning reason shall unfold)
Oh tell it then of wealth, more rich than gold;
Tell it — in soft affection's melting hour
Its mother's charm was more than beauty's pow'r
Then say — how christian faith, a balm supplies
Resign'd to Heaven so dear, so lov'd a prize,
And train her beauteous offspring for the skies!