On The First Appearance Of Snow

O COME, welcome visitor, clothe by degrees
Our fields in their annual vest;
Hang thy fleeces unsoil'd on our bushes and trees,
Tho' a late an acceptable guest.
Thy stay was protracted where Winter reigns keen,
In the northermost parts of the globe;
And Christmas has past in a mantle of green,
Instead of a spotless white robe.
O come, and thy feathery spangles disclose
Bright flakes by the whizzing winds tost;
'Neath thy bosom in safety the corn shall repose,
Secure from the sharp biting frost.
But how soon art thou vanish'd! the Sun's potent ray,
Renewing its strength with the year,
Ere the drop is to chrystal condensed on the spray,
Dissolves every gem to a tear.
In the bleak months of Winter the verdure of Spring
To the cattle affords a repast;
The warblers already their roundelays sing,
Nor shrink from the perishing blast.
Yet unconscious they gather the bounty assign'd,
Nor feel from what source it descends;
They perceive not, nor know that beneficent mind,
Whose care o'er creation extends.
But man, for whose use and enjoyment they live,
Taught by reason, shall lend them a voice;
His heart shall to Heav'n its best sacrifice give,
And with grateful emotions rejoice.