Written In Alcove Near Orpington In Kent Poem by Cornelius Arnold

When I survey with wond'ring Eyes,
This beauteous rural Scene;
Pleas'd with the View, my raptur'd Soul
Is lost in Joys serene;


Joys such as these it needs must be
Which Adam once possess'd;
When he beheld great Nature's God
In Eden's Glories dress'd.


Grant me kind Heav'n! indulge thus far,
My Being's utmost Wish;
Life's chequer'd, various Fate to end
In such a Spot as this:


In Contemplation of thy Works,
My peaceful Hours to spend;
O may I ne'er those Blessings want,
A well chose Book and Friend.


O! if it ben't too much to ask,
To crown this calm Retreat;
Grant a kind Fair One to my Arms,
And make the Bliss complete.