ODE XXV.
A GLEE.
COMPOSED FOR A SOCIETY OF BENEVOLENT PERSONS'
I
Is there a heart so blithe and gay,
As not one tender thought to spare
On youth, by passion led astray,
And lost in labyrinths of despair?
Go, heart of stone, and join the songs,
On rugged rock, of savage throngs.
II
Is there a saint of spotless fame,
In conscious virtue wrapt secure,
That knows no guilt, that feels no shame,
Blest, and of future blessings sure?
Seek fairer worlds, thou heart of snow,
Too pure for mortals here below.
III
Is there a heart, tho' blithe and gay,
Where yet meek mercy loves to dwell,
Where Reason holds the sovereign sway,
Tho' Passion sometimes dare rebel?
Come, heart of man, thus gay and free,
And share with us the social glee.
IV
The men, whom tenderest passions move,
Repose, in generous friendships blest:
Young Mirth is theirs; and soft-eyed Love
Finds in their heart a downy nest:
And when they raise their festive songs,
Angels might listen to their tongues.
V
Does Death, the bold obtruder, come,
To force the social band away?
Meek Pity hastens to their tomb;
'Tis her's to chant the parting lay:
While cheerful nymphs, and generous swains,
Record their memory in their strains.
