A Warning From the Grave

Verse 1

Beneath our feet and o'er our head Is equal warning given; Beneath us lie the countless dead, Above us is the heaven! Death rides on every passing breeze, And lurks in every flower; Each season hath its own disease, Its peril every hour!

Verse 2

Our eyes have seen the rosy light Of youth's soft cheek decay; And fate descend in sudden night On manhood's middle day. Our eyes have seen the steps of age Halt feebly to the tomb; And yet shall earth our hearts engage, And dreams of days to come?

Verse 3

Then, mortal, turn! thy danger know; Where'er thy foot can tread, The earth rings hollow from below, And warns thee of her dead! Turn, mortal, turn! thy soul apply To truths divinely given: The dead, who underneath thee lie, Shall live for hell or heaven!