AN EVENING HYMN.

Beneath the star-lit skies, Treading the dew-gemmed sod, I look to Thee, Father Almighty! and these tearful eyes Through mortal shadows would thy glory see! My spirit long hath bent To earthly idols, while Faith's single eye Gazing upon the treasures thou hast lent, Turns from its goal beyond the glowing sky. Ingratitude hath chilled Affection's gushing fountain, till it flows Sluggishly onward, like a stream distilled Where blackened rocks and gathered sands oppose. And Hope renews her flight Only to mourn her desolate return; Since not beyond the veil of mortal night She strives the land of beauty to discern. And Love hath forged its chain— A glittering band that dazzles to subdue! The thirsting captives in its lengthened train Turn from the fount of Heaven to earthly dew! And Thought hath bent its wing From its high journeying, awhile to sit Within its gilded cage; a captive thing, Pleased with the trifles that before it flit. And from the harp of life Grief hath her wild, discordant measures wrung; She saw death conquer in the fearful strife, And on the air her notes of sadness flung. Even as the withered flower Looks up for evening's damp, reviving breath, So in this calmly bright and solemn hour My spirit struggles with the bands of death. From thy resplendent throne Eternal Father! grant one lucid ray Upon the path which I must tread alone, Unless thy smile illume the clouded way. To thy returning child Bend a propitious ear! Accept my prayer, Through Christ the crucified, the undefiled, Whose cry of anguish rent the midnight air. And now the stars look down With softer glances, and the dew-drops roll With ringing melody from night's pale crown: These are Thy smiles to my awakened soul!