Through the night-watches, Sleep, we picture thee

Through the night-watches, Sleep, we picture thee,
Now as a bridge that links two neighbouring lands,
One worn and barren as the sea's bare sands,
One sown and fruitful with all things to be:—

Now as a mist that spreadeth silently,
We see thee hiding with thy vaporous hands
The good that gladdens, and the guilt that brands,
The griefs that follow, and the joys that flee.

And now a seraph, an angelic guide,
Thy white wings reaching to thy noiseless feet,
We see thee leading to each loved one's side
The longed for figure that each loves to greet:

Oh, while the darkness and the night abide,
Be thou love's guide, and guide me to my Sweet.