XXVII. Lost Eden.
When they return unto Thee, in the land of their enemies, and
pray unto Thee toward their land which Thou gavest unto
their fathers, then hear Thou their supplication in Heaven.
Unto the East we turn, in thoughtful gaze,
Like longing exiles to their ancient home,
Mindful of our lost Eden. Thence may come
Genial ambrosial airs around the ways
Of daily life, and fragrant thoughts that raise
Home-sympathies: so may we cease to roam,
Seeking some resting-place before the tomb,
To which on wandering wings devotion strays.
But true to our high birthright, and to Him
Who leads us by the flaming Cherubim,
Death's gate, our pilgrim spirits may arise
O'er earth's affections; and mid worldlings rude,
Walk loosely in their holier solitude,
And breathe the air of their lost Paradise.
