Classic Poem

XXXIX MONUMENT OF MRS HOWARD (BY NOLLEKENS)

In Wetheral Church, near Corby, on the banks of the Eden.

Stretched on the dying Mother's lap, lies dead
Her new-born Babe; dire ending of bright hope!
But Sculpture here, with the divinest scope
Of luminous faith, heavenward hath raised that head
So patiently; and through one hand has spread
A touch so tender for the insensate Child —
(Earth's lingering love to parting reconciled,
Brief parting, for the spirit is all but fled) —
That we, who contemplate the turns of life
Through this still medium, are consoled and cheered;
Feel with the Mother, think the severed Wife
Is less to be lamented than revered;
And own that Art, triumphant over strife
And pain, hath powers to Eternity endeared.