The Virginia Gazette

Mr. RIND,

If you think the following lines worthy a place in your Gazette, be pleased to insert them in your next, and oblige a constant reader.

RUSTICUS.

TO RELIGION.

RELIGION! Source of ev'ry lasting joy,
Born of Heav'n's King, the dearest friend to man,
Did man enough embrace THY friendly aid;
'Tis THOU alone that giv'st him happiness
Whilst here, and hope of happiness to come.

'Tis by THY favourable promises,
THY charming prospect, and thrice welcome truths,
That life's sharp conflicts are with patience borne,
And its few comforts perfectly enjoy'd.

Nor to our race alone art THOU a blessing
THY precious influence circulates and flows,
Thro' the vast spaces of etherial realms,
Kindling devotion's ardor in the breasts
Of happy Angels, who in THEE delight,
And make THEE the sole object of their thoughts.

How art THOU priz'd, how valu'd, how esteem'd,
By some that only yet sojourn below!
THOU wast their morning light, their able guide,
Thro' this world's snares, and now THOU art their theme.
On THEE they dwell, by THEE they hope e'er long,
(Mortality's incumbrances shook off)
To breathe in climes immortal, and serene,
Of endless pleasure, and of perfect peace;
There to renew their exercise of THEE.
And join their elder brothers in the choir
Of praise, thro' Heaven's wide domain resounding.

O may'st THOU still more votaries allure,
Attract more mortals to behold, admire
The excellence that is in THEE contain'd,
And the vast treasure that THINE hand confers!
Then wou'd earth's boasted wealth be less pursued,
The fading toys, amusing vanities,
Of this dull region, that possess the hearts,
Of mankind's greater part, shou'd then remove,
And nobler, surer bliss, be introduc'd!