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WAS in the solemn midnight hour, When sleep extends its balmy power,
 * The slumbering world around;

When Darkness, o’er the extensive globe Spreads, far and wide, its sable robe,
 * And Silence reigns profound!

As wrapped in lonely solitude, The starry canopy I viewed,
 * In pensive thought reclined;

A sudden tremor chilled my blood, My hair, with horror, upright stood,
 * And terror filled my mind.

Before mine eyes a spirit passed— I gazed, with trembling looks, aghast!
 * As o’er the path it flew;

It stood, but naught could I descry, The gloom, that veiled the midnight sky,
 * Concealed it from my view.