The Works of William Mason ... In Four Volumes |
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| VIII. | SONNET VIII.
FEBRUARY 23, 1796. ANNIVERSARY. |
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 | The Works of William Mason |  |
129
SONNET VIII. FEBRUARY 23, 1796. ANNIVERSARY.
In the long course of seventy years and one,Oft have I known on this, my natal day,
Hoar frost, and sweeping snow prolong their sway,
The wild winds whistle, and the forests groan;
But now spring's smile has veil'd stern winter's frown;
And now the birds on ev'ry budding spray
Chaunt orisons, as to the morn of May:
With them all fear of season's change is flown;
Like them I sing, yet not, like them beguil'd,
Expect the vernal bloom of youth to know:
But, though such hope be from my breast exil'd,
I feel warm Piety's superior glow,
And as my winter, like the year's, is mild,
Give praise to Him, from whom all mercies flow.
| The Works of William Mason | |