I Would Not Live Alway

1I WOULD not live alway: I ask not to stay,
Where storm after storm rises o'er the dark way;
The few lurid mornings that dawn on us here,
Are enough for life's woes, full enough for its cheer.

2I would not live alway, where hope is untrue,
As fair, but as fleeting, as bright morning dew;–
I long for that land whose blest promise alone
Is changeless, and sure as eternity's throne.

3Who, who would live alway, away from his God
Away from his kingdom, that blissful abode,
Where rivers of pleasure flow o'er the bright plains,
And the noon-tide of glory eternally reigns.

4Where saints of all ages in harmony meet,
Their Saviour and brethren, transported to greet;
Where anthems of rapture unceasingly roll,
And the smile of the Lord is the feast of the soul.