LIGHT ON THE GRAVE.

TO THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED.

THOU art gone to the grave; but we will not deplore thee,
Though sorrows and darkness encompass the tomb;
The Saviour hath pass'd through its portal before thee,
And the lamp of His love is thy guide through the gloom!

Thou art gone to the grave; we no longer behold thee,
Nor tread the rough path of the world by thy side;
But the wide arms of Mercy are spread to enfold thee,
And sinners may die, for the Sinless has died!

Thou art gone to the grave; and its mansion forsaking,
Perhaps thy weak spirit in fear linger'd long;

But the mild rays of Paradise beam'd on thy waking,
And the sound which thou heardst was the seraphim's
song.

Thou art gone to the grave; but we will not deplore thee, Whose God was thy ransom, thy guardian and guide! He gave thee, He took thee, and He will restore thee; And death has no sting, for the Saviour has died!

BISHOP REGINALD HEBER.