In Due Observance Of An Ancient Rite

Composed 1810.--Published 1815

In due observance of an ancient rite, The rude Biscayans, when their children lie Dead in the sinless time of infancy, Attire the peaceful corse in vestments white; And, in like sign of cloudless triumph bright, They bind the unoffending creature's brows With happy garlands of the pure white rose: Then do a festal company unite In choral song; and, while the uplifted cross Of Jesus goes before, the child is borne Uncovered to his grave: 'tis closed,--her loss The Mother then mourns, as she needs must mourn; But soon, through Christian faith, is grief subdued; And joy returns, to brighten fortitude.

VARIANTS:

1837.

This done, ... 1815.

1837.

Uncovered to his grave.--Her piteous loss The lonesome Mother cannot chuse but mourn; Yet soon by Christian faith is grief subdued, 1815.

C. and 1838.

And joy attends upon her fortitude. 1815.

Or joy returns to brighten fortitude. 1837.