Classic Poem

Approach this spot with awe...here C OWPER lies!
The great, the good, the pious, and the wise;
With reverential eye, this tomb draw near,
Nor fail to drop the big regretful tear;
For if each virtue that our nature knows,
If wisdom, such as heaven to few bestows,
If strict integrity, unsullied truth,
A life unspotted, ev'n from age to youth;
If brilliant genius, learning, void of guile,
Employ'd alone on works which angels smile;
If these demand thy reverence and love,
And if their loss thy heartfelt pity move,
Thy throbbing bosom strike with streaming eyes,
Depart this spot with awe...here C OWPER lies!