Classic Poem

1.

Behold the Fool, whose heart denies
The God who form'd the Earth and Skies:
While, fearless, sin's worst paths he treads,
Mark how the dire example spreads.

2.

Of Man's whole race not one we find
To Virtue's Heav'n-taught rules inclin'd,
Who 'midst infectious times has stood
Unstain'd, and obstinately good.

3.

Th' eternal Monarch from on high
Cast on the Sons of Earth his eye,
If haply some he yet might see
True to their God, from error free.

4.

He look'd: But ah! not one could find
To Virtue's Heav'n-taught rules inclin'd:
Each, led from Wisdom's path astray,
Pursues the tenour of his way.

5.

O say, what frenzy thus could blind
Their Souls, that with remorseless mind
As bread my People they devour,
Nor suppliant own their Maker's pow'r.

6.

Yet see their thoughts tumultuous roll,
See causeless terrors shake their soul;
By just alarms of conscience driv'n
To tremble at the wrath of Heav'n!

7.

Wide o'er the field the bones are spread
Of Chiefs who by thy sword have bled,
And speak the doom that All must share,
Whom God abandons from his care.

8.

Who, mightiest Lord, to Israel 's eyes
Shall bid the wish'd Salvation rise,
From Sion 's hill its healing ray
Extend, and round us pour the day?

9.

When Thou thy captives shalt restore,
Thy praise shall sound through Judah 's shore,
And ceaseless shouts, through heav'n's wide frame
Loud echoing, Jacob 's joy proclaim.