On The Death Of Miss Ives

THUS spake the Almighty Lord enthroned in light,
To a pure Spirit of th' empyreal choir,
"Thou, 'midst my seraph host divinely bright,
"Go, and the fairest mortal form inspire.
"A few short years, in love to fall'n mankind,
"Go, thy celestial beams on earth display;
"Charm by example's force the human mind,
"Then re-ascending, rest in endless day."
Her task fulfill'd, lo! she exulting soars;
Ye mourners left behind, ah! cease to grieve:
Each cherub tongue this strain triumphant pours,
"Hail, thou beloved! thy heav'nly crown receive!"