The Poetry Corner

On Resigning A Scholarship Of Trinity College, Oxford, And Retiring To A Country Curacy.

By William Lisle Bowles

Farewell! a long farewell! O Poverty, Affection's fondest dream how hast thou reft! But though, on thy stern brow no trace is left Of youthful joys, that on the cold heart die, With thee a sad companionship I seek, Content, if poor; for patient wretchedness, Tearful, but uncomplaining of distress, Who turns to the rude storm her faded cheek; And Piety, who never told her wrong; And calm Content, whose griefs no more rebel; And Genius, warbling sweet, his saddest song, When evening listens to some village knell, Long banished from the world's insulting throng; With thee, and thy unfriended children dwell.