CAN WE BELIEVE THIS WORLD OF OURS.
I
Can we believe this world of ours
Is but a snare that we must shun,
Grasping the thorns, and not the flow'rs,
Seeking the gloom, and not the sun!
When by sweet music's voice invited,
Ought we in scorn to turn away?
When with the joyous dance delighted,
Are we to blame if we delay?
II
Must we renounce each art and science,
As we would shun some hateful spell;
And from each social fond alliance,
Turn to the cloister and the cell?
No, it is not to gloom and terror,
Virtue will fly from harmless mirth;
Kind to misfortune, mild to error,
Blessing and blest she walks the earth!
