Classic Poem

Ah me! opprest with never-ending woes,
My hopes and wishes center in the tomb!
When shall I sink securely to repose,
And sleep encircled with its friendly gloom?

Long wish'd in vain, no more I wish for weal,
I only seek the rest of death to prove;
When I shall cease, forever cease, to feel
The wounds of fortune, and the pangs of love.

Soon, soon, I hope, that, to these closing eyes,
Its last kind office friendship shall bestow,
Convey me where my honour'd mother lies,
And bid my dust with kindred dustly low.

Rank on my grave the matted grass shall grow;
The busy and the gay pass heedless by;
A parting tear, love, — friendship, — shall bestow;
And I at rest from all my troubles ly.