The WISH. Addressed to Miss E— P

Would Heaven for once in pity condescend, And to my wish a patient hearing lend, I would not ask the miser's canker'd ore, Nor the hard fate of those who're overpoor; I would not ask for honor's empty name, Nor would I enter on the list of fame; But for my lot I'd choose some kind retreat, Far from the busy scenes of pomp and state, Where universal peace unmix'd with pain, Where truth and friendship unmolested reign: Where Charity its pleasing form extends, Which to the poor its kind assistance lends; Where every one his God and neighbour loves, And asks for naught but what his God approves. Where heaven-born piety on all around Sheds its mild rays, to soften every wound— Where taught by thee, forgiving hands extend, And adds ELIZA, as a much-lov'd friend—to