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Rh

My whole of life is precious; but this shred, This earthly portion of it, what is that, But as it is employ'd in holy acts? Am I Christ's soldier at a poorer rate Than I have served an earthly master? No; I feel within my glowing breast a power Which says I am commission'd for this service. Give me thy blessing—thy baptismal blessing, And then God's spirit guide me! Serving God, I will not count the cost but to discharge it.

His will direct thee then, my gen'rous son! His blessing be upon thee!—Lead him, Sylvius, To the blest fount, where from his former sins He shall by heavenly grace be purified. [Exeunt.

Was it not well to rise with early morn And pay my homage to sweet Flora? Never Were flowers by mid-day cull'd so fair, so fragrant, With blending streaky tints, so fresh and bright.