ODE II. An Ode on the Praise of Angels—Psal. ciii. 20

Let Cherub and let Cherubim Clap their blest wings in praise of him, And all their powers in rapture raise, While their great object is his praise.

He form'd their natures like his own, And plac'd their ranks around his throne; But conscious distance veil'd their face, They bow'd, adoring wond'rous grace.

Ye first-born sons of early day, Sing to his praise—his will obey, And while you fly from pole to pole, And other systems round you roll,

You'll aid his praise—till all at last, When ages yet unborn are past, Center in one—In one great throng, In perfect unison their song.

Angels and men their voice shall raise In sweetest consort to his praise; The great Messiah then shall shine, Array'd in glories all divine. The head of angels and of men Uniting all to God again.