1847 Oxford night caps (4th edition)

45

While gladsome spirits thronging round To taste its richness press; And fair the scene, and loud the sound Of mirth and happiness ! Bright antidote of sorrow Some kind enlivening ray From thee we fain would borrow. To warm our grateful lay For oft I ween thy kindling glance The drooping heart hath cheered : Poured round the soul a joyous trance, And visions gay upreared. Full many a day of gladness Hath hailed the welcome cheer ; Full many a thought of sadness Hath fled, transported, here. A nd still, through years of fleeting change, Each passing youthful train, Ere it might tempt the wide world's range, Hath passed the cup to drain.

The sky that glows above us Remains unchanged the same : But will the friends that love us Preserve a changeless flame ?