Verses Written Before Marriage

Hence, every gloomy care away! Hence, every secret fear! With joy I see th' approaching day Which gives me all that's dear.

What tho' no jewels grace my bride, (She owes no charms to them) Yet virtue in her bosom dwells— There glows the brightest gem.

There white-rob'd Innocence appears, Fair Peace in smiles array'd, And sweet Content, in humble guise, Adorn the lovely maid.

Oh! born to bless me with thy love, My dear, my joy, my life— Soon will those tender names unite In that dear name of wife.

Thee meek-eyed gentleness adorns, With modest virtue join'd, Thy decent form, and humble mien, Bespeak a spotless mind;

On these I build my hopes of peace, On these bright charms of thine; How shall I bless that happy hour That makes thee ever mine?