Time’s Defence

``Why am I deemed an enemy of men Who would beyond Life's limit life prolong? If they believe that they will live again, How can it be that I have done them wrong? Is it not I who rout the Winter snows, And Spring's melodious symphonies renew, Bring back the blush unto the budding rose, And christen Summer's birth with morning dew? 'Tis I that ring the silvery nuptial peal, When streams the Bridal up the rustic nave, And if around the bier where mourners kneel I toll the passing-bell and dig the grave, From death and grief I half dispel the gloom, Inscribing words of hope upon the loved one's tomb.''