Sleep, Minstrel, Sleep

Sleep, minstrel, sleep!
The island home is lonely, dear, to-day,
And moaning billows ceaseless vigil keep.
Sleep, minstrel, sleep!

Sleep, minstrel, sleep!
A hallowed light illuminates the bay,
Where thy sweet spirit loved to hymn the deep.
Sleep, minstrel, sleep!

Sleep, minstrel, sleep!
Though generations rise and pass away,
Thy songs sublime shall still the silence sweep.
Sleep, minstrel, sleep!

Sleep, minstrel, sleep!
Beside thy couch eternal fountains play
And angels hover near thee:—yet, we weep.
Sleep, minstrel, sleep!