Classic Poem

BY THE SAME .

O H ! might I freely choose my path of life,
From giddy pleasure, and ambitious strife,
To joys more peaceful should my footsteps tend,
And seek in virtuous innocence a friend.
A cottage, by whose side clear streamlets run,
And gilded only by the orient sun:
When bright Aurora, with her purple ray,
Streaks on the western sky the dawn of day;
In peace I'd tread the damask-coated vale,
To breathe the fragrance of the morning gale.
Or, with my book, retire to woodbine bow'rs,
While evening dew reviv'd the drooping flow'rs:
Or whilst thy beauties, Nature, stood display'd,
Invoke the muse, beneath the moonlight shade.
Thus bless'd with fair content, my hours should slide,
Like streams that calmly through their channels glide.
To guide my steps, be fair religion given,
And, as I sink in life, I'd rise towards heaven!