Classic Poem

I N the centre of the rays,
Which returning Peace displays;
Cheer'd with her celestial birth,
Who can look upon the Earth?
Now 'tis cover'd by the night,
Where 's the circle of its light?
Where, alas, have disappear'd
Charms that Nature's Beauty rear'd?
Vale and stream, the busy mart,
Lakes and sea-girt Isles, depart —
All Oblivion's wreck deplore,
Ev'n the Ocean is no more.
Such a little point and spot,
Only seen to be forgot —
Is the destin'd wreath of strife,
Barter'd for the risk of life.
Yet for this , will sword and spear,
Listed in the ranks appear;
And for this have legions trod,
On the Altar of their God!