Earth's transitory things decay

Verse 1

Earth's transitory things decay; Its pomps, its pleasures pass away; But the sweet memory of the good Survives in the vicissitude.

Verse 2

As, 'mid the ever-rolling sea, The eternal isles established be, 'Gainst which the surges of the main Fret, dash, and break themselves in vain;--

Verse 3

As in the heavens, the urns divine Of golden light for ever shine; Tho' clouds may darken, storms may rage, They still shine on from age to age;--

Verse 4

So, through the ocean tide of years, The memory of the just appears; So, through the tempest and the gloom, The good man's virtues light the tomb.