I.

I N vain the world's alluring smile
Would my unwary heart beguile:
Deluding world! its brightest day,
Dream of a moment, fleets away!

II.

Earth's highest pleasures, could they last,
Would pall and languish on the taste;
Such airy chaff was ne'er design'd
To feed th' immortal, craving mind.

III.

To nobler bliss my soul aspires,
Come, Lord, and fill these vast desires
Be thou my portion, here I rest,
Since of my utmost wish possest.

IV.

O let thy sacred word impart
Its sealing influence to my heart;
With power, and light, and love divine,
Assure my soul that thou art mine.

V.

The blissful word, with joy replete,
Shall bid my gloomy fears retreat,
And heaven-born hope, serenely bright,
Shine cheerful through this mortal night:

VI.

Then shall my joyful spirit rise
On wings of faith above the skies;
And when these transient scenes are o'er,
And this vain world shall tempt no more:

VII.

O may I reach the blissful plains,
Where thy unclouded glory reigns,
And dwell for ever near thy throne
In joys to mortal thought unknown.