.
.
Mutability (Publ. 1824)

                I.

The flower that smiles to-day
     To-morrow dies;
All that we wish to stay
     Tempts and then flies
What is this worlds delight?
Lightning that mocks the night
     Brief even as bright.

                I I.

Virtue, how frail it is!
     Friendship how rare!
Love, how it sells poor bliss
     For proud despair!
But we, though soon they fall,

Survive their joy, and all
     Which ours we call.

                I I I.

Whilst skies are blue and bright,
     Whilst flowers are gay,
Whilst eyes that change ere night
     Make glad the day;
Whilst yet the calm hours creep,
Dream thou - and from thy sleep
     Then wake to weep. 

<......................>