The APPEAL.
I
To thee, great searcher of the heart,
I solemnly appeal,
Who all the secrets of my soul,
And inmost thoughts can'st tell.
II
Even thou, th' unerring judge of all,
Dost my dread witness prove;
That thee, beyond whate'er the world
Can tempt me with, I love.
III
That thou, whatever else I miss,
Whatever else I lose,
Art my exceeding great reward,
And highest bliss I chuse.
IV
Leave me of wealth, of honour, friends,
And all things else bereft;
But of thy favour, gracious God,
Let me be never left;
V
O hear! and grant thy boundless love's
Inestimable store,
And I'll hereafter close my lips,
And never urge thee more.
VI
With this alone I'll be content;
But, Lord, of this deny'd,
I shou'd despise the noblest gift,
Thou cou'dst bestow beside.
VII
Among the brightest joys of life,
I shou'd no pleasure know,
But murm'ring to the sullen shades
Of endless night would go.
