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The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D.

Containing, besides his Sermons, and Essays on miscellaneous subjects, several additional pieces, Selected from his Manuscripts by the Rev. Dr. Jennings, and the Rev. Dr. Doddridge, in 1753: to which are prefixed, memoirs of the life of the author, compiled by the Rev. George Burder. In six volumes

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ODE II. The Departing Moment; or, Absent from the Body.

I

Absent from flesh! O blissful thought!
What unknown joys this moment brings!
Freed from the mischiefs sin hath wrought,
From pains, and tears, and all their springs.

II

Absent from flesh! Illustrious day!
Surprising scene! Triumphant stroke,
That rends the prison of my clay,
And I can feel my fetters broke!

III

Absent from flesh! Then rise, my soul,
Where feet or wings could never climb,
Beyond the heav'ns where planets roll,
Measuring the cares and joys of time.

IV

I go where God and glory shine:
His presence makes eternal day.
My all that's mortal I resign,
For Uriel waits and points my way.