In lonely splendor, flashes for a time,

Till scattering celestial lights appear,—

The vanguard of an astral multitude

Of constellations, jewelled and serene,

Which fill the lofty dome of space, until

The heavens sparkle with the myriad

Of spectra, nebulae and satellite;

With stellar scintillation, and the orbs

Of less refulgence, which, reflective shine;

With falling star and trailing meteor;

In one grand culmination, glittering

To their Creator's glory!

A burst of mellow lunar radiance

Inundates and illuminates the scene;

The waxing moon, in her meridian full,

Her beam vicarious disseminates,

And shining, hides with her superior light,

The twinkling beauty of the firmament!

At the stupendous and inspiring sight

Of cosmic grandeur of the universe,

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