POEMS 165 



Perhaps (for who can nature's ties forget?) 



As underneath the flowery shade we sit, 



In this rich western world remotely plac'd, 



Our thoughts may roam beyond the wat'ry waste ; 



And see, with sadden'd hearts, in memory's eye, 



Those native shores, where dear-lov'd kindred sigh: 



Where War and ghastly Want in horror reign, 



And dying babes to fainting sires complain. 



While we, alas ! these mournful scenes retrace, 



In climes of plenty, liberty, and peace. 



Our tears shall flow, our ardent pray'rs arise. 



That Heaven would wipe all sorrow from their eyes. 



Thus, in celestial climes, the heavenly train, 



Escap'd from earth's dark ills, and all its pain 



Sigh o'er the scenes of suffering man below. 



And drop a tear in tribute to our woe. 



