The Wish

"Was I a shepherd's maid to keep" Some sheep upon the plain, I now had never known to weep, Nor felt ambition's pain.

But pure contentment should enjoy, (Unheedful of the great) Nor thus my hopes at once destroy, By pride's destructive state.

Auspicious stars—subdue my care, And guide me in thy ways, Nor thus let vanity ensnare, But happy make my days.

Teach me humility and love, And ever give me peace; O! may I learn no more to rove, But from these foibles cease.