Written on the Bank of the Thames, opposite KEW, December 29, 1788

By Winter's chilling breath now Silver Thames Is ice-bound, and his gently-gliding stream, That late convey'd each product of the land To all who wanted, still diffusing good, In torpid stupor lies! But oh! worse grief! Benign and gracious GEORGE, whose every deed Throughout his holy life was amiable, Dispensing blessings ever o'er his realms, Under th' ALMIGHTY's visitation lies! The stream of reason, and the spring of sense, Fast bound! close lock'd! Most merciful, just GOD! As thou still sendest kindly, genial warmth, To loose the bands of Winter in due time; So may it please THEE shortly to restore To reason, health, and happiness, OUR KING!