Pamper'd with ease, elated with success Too high he soar'd; O had he never soar'd From virtue's sight, nor dazzled by the glare, Deceitful glare, of luxury and shew; Sinn'd "'gainst his better knowledge, not deceiv'd!" E'er now perhaps possess'd of all he sought, Of ev'ry wish possess'd, he bright had shone The church's glory and the people's pride. But, sad reverse! beyond the bounds emerg'd Of careful prudence, plung'd beneath the wave Of heedless dissipation and expence; In one sad hour (O deed for ever mourn'd) He drew the fatal bond — the bond of death!
Where were ye then ye guardian spirits, Ye tutelary pow'rs that shield the just? Ah just no more! from God and truth estrang'd The hapless preacher fell! Almighty wrath To a revolted heart consign'd him o'er, From God revolted and his righteous ways. For when, enslav'd by luxury, vain man Forgets the source of ev'ry bliss enjoy'd, And thwarts his will, whose laws are freedom's voice, What wonder then, if Providence incens'd, Leave the misguided wretch to search for good; Vainly to search amidst the pathless tracts Of human wisdom, and resign him o'er To his own heart a prey, left in his turn, Left by that guide he slighted, left by God!
