Hymns for the Amusement of Children (1791)/Loveliness

HYMN XIV. LOVELINESS.

Good-nature is thy sterling name, Yet loveliness is English too; Sweet disposition, whose bright aim, Is to the mark of Jesus true.

I've seen thee in an homely face, Excel by pulchritude of mind; To ill-form'd features give a grace, Serene, benevolent and kind.

'Tis when the spirit is so great, That it the body still controuls, As godly inclinations meet, In sweet society of souls.

It is that condescending air, Where perfect willingness is plain, To smile assent, to join in pray'r, And urg'd a mile to go it twain.

To grant at once the boon preferr'd, By contrite foe, or needy friend; To be obliging is the word, And God's good blessing is the end.