ON HEARING “THE MESSIAH”

Oh, stay, harmonious and sweet sounds, that die

In the long vaultings of this ancient fane!

Stay, for I may not hear on earth again

Those pious airs — that glorious harmony;

Lifting the soul to brighter orbs on high,

Worlds without sin or sorrow!

Ah, the strain

Has died — ev'n the last sounds that lingeringly

Hung on the roof ere they expired!

And I,

Stand in the world of strife, amidst a throng,

A throng that recks not or of death, or sin!

Oh, jarring scenes! to cease, indeed, ere long;

The worm hears not the discord and the din;

But he whose heart thrills to this angel song,

Feels the pure joy of heaven on earth begin!