Whose was that gentle voice, that, whispering sweet, <br /> Promised methought long days of bliss sincere! <br /> Soothing it stole on my deluded ear, <br /> Most like soft music, that might sometimes cheat <br /> Thoughts dark and drooping! 'Twas the voice of Hope. <br /> Of love and social scenes, it seemed to speak, <br /> Of truth, of friendship, of affection meek; <br /> That, oh! poor friend, might to life's downward slope <br /> Lead us in peace, and bless our latest hours. <br /> Ah me! the prospect saddened as she sung; <br /> Loud on my startled ear the death-bell rung; <br /> Chill darkness wrapt the pleasurable bowers, <br /> Whilst Horror, pointing to yon breathless clay, <br /> "No peace be thine," exclaimed, "away, away!"<br /><br />William Lisle Bowles<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/bereavement-2/
