The Syren: Part V. Sea, Hunting, & Masonic Songs, Song

Once I was blind, and could not see, For all was dark around. But Providence did pity me, And soon a friend I sound: Through hidden paths my friend me led, Such paths as babblers ne'er shall tread, With a fa, la, la, &c.

All stumbling blocks he took away, That I might walk secure;

And brought me e're the break of day, To Sol's great temple door; Where we both admittance found, By help of magic spell and sound, With a fa, la, la, &c.

But the curber of my bold attempt Did soon my breast alarm, By hinting I was not exempt, (If rash) from future harm; Which put a stop to rising pride, And make me trust more to my guide. With a fa, la, la, &c.

Round and round I then was brought To mighty Sol's great throne, Where I was oblig'd to stop, Till I myself made known: Then with great noise I round was brought For to obtain—that which I sought. With a fa, la, la, &c.

In humble posture and due form, I listen'd with good-will; Instead of mighty noise and storm, All now was hush'd and still: Such charming sounds I then did hear. As quite dispell'd all doubt and sear. With a fa, la, la, &c.

The mighty monarch then from his throne, Bid darkness then withdraw; No sooner said than it was done, And I great things then saw: But what they were, I will not tell, Yet such they are as here shall dwell. With a fa, la, la, &c.

Then round and round me he did tie A noble ancient charm; All future darkness to desy, And guard from Cowan's harm; Then sent me back from whence I came, Not what I was, but what I am. With a fa, la, la, &c.

And now I'm made an upright man, And levell'd with the best: I'll square my acts the best I can, Within an honest breast: I'll toast my friends both day and night, And those blest hands brought me to light, With a fa, la, la, &c.