Hymns for the Amusement of Children (1791)/Hope

HYMN II. HOPE.

Ah! Hannah, why should'st thou despair, Quick to the Tabernacle speed; There on thy knees prefer thy pray'r,     And there thy cause to mercy plead.

Her pious breathings now ascend, As from her heart the sighs she heaves; And angels to her suit attend, Till strong in hope she now conceives.

Then Samuel soon was brought to light To serve the Lord, as yet a child — O what a heart — reviving sight! Sure Cherubims and Seraphs smil'd.

Thus yet a child may I begin, To serve the Lord with all my heart; To shun the wily lures of sin, And claim the prize, or e're I start.


 * The story of Hannah and the birth of her son Samuel (1 Sam. 1), was favorite of Smart's (see "Jubilato Agno", B458 etc.).