Thomas Noon Talfourd

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!