WHEN clouds and rain deform the sky, <br />And light'nings glare around, <br />Amidst the dreary, cheerless scene, <br />Some comfort may be found. <br />There will, at some far-distant spot, <br />A streak of light appear, <br />Or, when the sullen vapours break, <br />The ether will be clear. <br /> <br />And if the sun illumes the east, <br />And sheds his gladsome ray, <br />Some boding mist, or passing cloud <br />Will threat the rising day. <br />The heart rejoicing in the view, <br />And dancing with delight, <br />Oft feels the touch of palsied fear, <br />And sinks at thought of night. <br />So Hope's bright torch more clearly shines, <br />Amidst surrounding gloom, <br />And, beldame Fortune vainly throws <br />Her mantle o'er the tomb.<br /><br />Matilda Betham<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/human-pleasure-or-pain/
