Classic Poem

As summer clouds in richness sleeping,
Are scattered by the winds away;
As flowers, awhile their beauty keeping,
Are withered at the close of day, —
So life is ever, ever flying
And bringing on the hour of dying;
The cloud departs; the blossom fades;
And death draws on its silent shades.

How brief the rainbow's peaceful brightness
Its glowing colors melt away;
How vain the busy insect's lightness!
Its life is sweet, but will not stay.
Earth's dearest joys are tinged by sorrow;
The soul may wade in grief to-morrow.
The rainbow melts; the insect dies, —
But man to endless life may rise.

The noonday hours are bright, but fleeting;
The time for labor soon is gone;
The gentle twilight, fast retreating,
Forsakes the world, and day is done.
So fast the day of life is spending;
So fast the time of duty, ending;
The day retires, the twilight flies;
O man, secure life's noblest prize.