The Wish

I ASK not fortune's partial smile, Exhaustless source of care; Not all her fancied gay delights Can claim a serious prayer. Nor pleasure's soft alluring form, With ardent wish I seek; Far less the captivating bloom That glows on beauty's cheek. I ask not, that in calm repose My even days may flow, Unruffled by adversity, Exempt from human woe. Enough that no reflections keen, No crimes my soul oppress, To rob me of the flattering hope Of future happiness. But grant me that blest frame of mind, Where no vain thoughts intrude; That blest serenity which springs From conscious rectitude.