Classic Poem

DELIVERED BY FRANCES JANE CROSBY, A PUPIL, ETC. ,

Now 'mid the evening sky serene,
Majestic rolls night's silv'ry queen;
Her starry train revolving round,
Smiles o'er calm nature's sleep profound.

Alas! though mild their lustre be,
Their beauties we may never see;
But there's a ray more pure, more bright,
That in our bosoms sheds its light.

That ray our darkened path beguiles,
And wreathes the clouded brow with smiles;
'Tis education, dearer far
Than brilliant moon or beaming star.

Thanks to our Father, God above,
For the rich tokens of his love;
The blind girl's home he deigns to bless,
And turns her grief to happiness.

How oft, at evening's silent hour,
When zephyrs fanned each fragrant flower,
And peaceful nature calmly slept
In pensive sadness, we have wept.

Now sweetly glide the hours away,
Cheered by soft music's thrilling lay;
And pure affection's accents dear,
Fall gently on our listening ear.

We — honored legislative band!
With glowing hearts before you stand; —
We plead for those bereft of sight,
Who sigh for education's light.

We tender you our thanks sincere,
For those intrusted to our care;
But many, many yet remain,
And shall we plead for them in vain?