Classic Poem

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.

Ev'n 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 choose.

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 should despise the noblest gift,
Thou coud'st bestow beside.

VII.

Among the brightest joys of life,
I should no pleasure know,
But murm'ring to the sullen shades
Of endless night would go.