Skip to content
1762–1850

SUPPOSED ADDRESS TO BISHOP KEN.

William Lisle Bowles

Though his words might well deceive me, Though to earth abased I bend, Christian guide, thou wilt not leave me, Thus on earth without a friend!

I thought his vows were oaths in heaven, Nor dare I here my fault deny; For all my soul to him was given, God knows how true, how tenderly!

Though wronged and desolate and dying, His pride, his coldness, I forgot, And fell upon his bosom, crying, Forsake me not — forsake me not!

I left my father, and my mother, Whom I no more on earth may see, But I have found a father, brother, And more than every friend, in thee!

Although his words might well deceive me, Though wronged, and desolate I lie, Christian guide, thou wilt not leave me, Oh, teach me to repent and die!

Cookies on Poetry Cove

We use cookies to remember your language preference and — only with your consent — to learn how Poetry Cove is used. You can change your mind any time.
SUPPOSED ADDRESS TO BISHOP KEN. · William Lisle Bowles · Poetry Cove