The New York Journal, And Daily Patriotic Register

POET's CORNER

SERENE COMPLACENCY, which diffuses itself
over the mind when the conscience beams
its approbative smiles, cannot be described;
like the peace of God it passeth all knowledge.
He who realizes it may be compared to a rock
in the midst of the sea which is not moved by the
dashing of the waves, the roaring of the billows,
nor the violence of the tempest.

He lives above the crowd, nor hears the noise
of wars and triumphs, nor regards the shouts
of popular applause-that empty sound,
Nor feels the flying arrows of reproach,
Or spite or envy-in himself secure,
Wisdom his tower, and conscience is his shield.
His peace all inward, and his joys his own.
Now my ambition swells, my wishes soar.
This be my kingdom-sit above this globe.
My rising soul, adores thy altar round.
And shine in virtue's armour-climb the height
Of wisdom's lofty castle. There reside
safe from the smiling or the frowning world.
Yet once a day drop down a gentle look
On the great mole-hill, and with pitying eye
Survey the busy Emmets round the heap
Crowding and bustling a thousand forms.
Of strife, and tries to purchase wealth and fame,
A bubble or a dust, then call thy thoughts
Up to thyself to feed on joys unknown,
Rich without gold, and great without renown.