ODE II. The Departing Moment; or, Absent from the Body

Absent from flesh! O blissful thought! What unknown joys this moment brings! Freed from the mischiefs sin hath wrought, From pains, and tears, and all their springs.

Absent from flesh! illustrious day! Surprising scene! triumphant stroke, That rends the prison of my clay, And I can feel my fetters broke!

Absent from flesh! Then rise, my soul, Where feet or wings could never climb, Beyond the heavens where planets roll, Measuring the cares and joys of time.

I go where GOD and glory shine: His presence makes eternal day. My all that's mortal I resign, For Uriel waits and points my way.