I GAZ ' D upon the flowerets fair,
Amid the meadows green;
On many a treasure rich and rare;
On many a lovely scene;

I search'd the breadth, I search'd the height,
Of all creation through,
From realms of empyrean light
To depths of ocean blue;

But found I naught in Heav'n or earth,
In air or sky or sea,
So beautiful, so high in worth,
Dear Mother-Maid as thee.

O sacred link of heavenly gold
In human nature's chain!
Elect before the days of old!
Conceiv'd without a stain!

Sublimest of created Pow'rs!
My hope and solace here,
Be thou with me when darkness low'rs,
And dews of death are near.