392.
[Wide is the field where folly reigns]
“O that they were Wise.” Deut. xxxii. 29.
1
Wide is the field where folly reigns,
In forms of every shape and dye;
And many are the fatal chains
That drag immortals from the sky!
2
Some fain to heaven their hopes would send,
But for the happier moment wait:
While some, to every theme attend
Save that of an eternal state!
3
Life's momentary pleasures vain;
Wealth, honours, men untired pursue:
These o'er their heart a rule maintain
Which hides the future from their view!
4
The mariner, in pride, or sport,
Bounds gaily o'er the billow vast;
Unmindful of that further port,
Where he, his anchor, soon must cast!
5
The merchant, with unsleeping cares,
Where profit beckons, eager flies,
While he forgets the richer wares
Which God approves, and angels prize!
6
The man who pants for human praise,
His idol, fame; his God, renown;
Builds, on the sands, that fools may gaze,
Which the first wave sends head-long down!
7
The soul, opprest with anguish, feels
How poor the solace these convey;
And Fame its prostrate power reveals
When God the spirit calls away!
8
Death is the hour of solemn thought,
When earth withdraws her dreams and toys;
Immortal beings, wisely taught,
Grasp at imperishable joys!
9
May we, rejecting Folly's voice,
Burst each delusive fetter strong;
And make the things alone our choice,
Which to Eternity belong!
