Classic Poem

To thee, bold Artist of a theme sublime,
An humble Muse her grateful tribute pays;
And tho' thy pencil claim eternal lays,
To give thy worth and works to future times,
Accept the tribute of a heart-felt praise,
By thee, and by Religion's self inspir'd:
Whilst on thy glowing Canvas lost we gaze
The 'raptur'd Soul with sacred Ardour fir'd,
Dwells on the happy hopes of future bliss;
When, freed from earthly Sin and earthly care,
Restor'd to all the most endearing ties
Which Parents, Children, Lovers, Friends can share,
The Just, made perfect, shall with holy joy
Meet, and receive Rewards, which Time can ne'er destroy.