I: Evening Service

PERFORMED BY DR. VALPY AT READING SCHOOL There is a holy magic in that tone, Can wake from memory's selectest cell The hour when first upon my heart it fell Like dew from Heaven:--the years that since have flown Seem airy dreams;--yet not of self alone Those sacred strains are eloquent;--they tell Of numbers temper'd by their simple spell In boyhood's unreflecting prime to own Their kindred with their fellows--best of lore!-- Who to this spot, as Persians to the East, Turn reverential thoughts from every shore Which holds them; nor forbear, till life has ceased, With child-like love, a blessing to implore On thee, great charity's unspotted priest!