The New Year.

Who, with smiles, and wishes fair, Through drifted snows and branches bare, Comes, and liberal-handed brings Countless gifts, and pleasant things, Many a cake, and many a kiss, Gilded toys, and sports of bliss, Pictured books, with covers gay: Who thus crowns our holiday? While the sleigh-bells' merry peal Rings, and glides the skater's heel? The glad New Year. Who, a tablet in his breast Hides, with characters impress'd, Mystic signs, and tints that show Chance, and change of joy and woe, Wreaths of hope in darkness laid Boasted wealth a winged shade, Brows that fade in youthful bloom, Empty cradle, open tomb: Who, alas! such course shall tread Ere his farewell words are said? The sad New Year. Who, of those that never stray Wilfully, from Duty's way, Seek for knowledge, prize the truth, Wisdom gain in early youth, With a pure, and peaceful mind Live in love with all mankind, And a Saviour's precepts dear, Treasure in His holy fear: Who, of such leaves record high On the pages of the sky? The bless'd New Year.