Ode to Content

I.
Where stands, Content! thy mansion pure?
The gaudy scenes of power,
Tho strew'd with many a flower
Her paths th' unwary guest allure,
Odious to thee appear,
Thou seest the viper lurking there.

II.
'Tis thine with grateful look to view
Young morning's blushing cheek,
Then quit thy pallat meek
And range the lawn impearl'd with dew:
Or from the swelling mound
Survey the verdant landscape round.

III.
Health t'ward thee comes, and smiling greets
Her best, her favourite child;
While Innocence strays wild,
Intent to cull the verdant sweets,
A beauteous wreathe to twine,
And deck thy placid brow divine.

IV.
O Nymph serene, where'er I rove,
Do Thou above my head
Thy hand propitious spread!
o care, and sullen grief shall prove
Too powerless to annoy,
Nor blast the waving crest of joy.

V.
So, tho by wayward fortune driven
To mingle with the train
Fantastic, base, and vain,
Thou shalt be near, Elect of Heaven!
To soothe life's pointed sting,
And shield me with thy peaceful wing.