John Milton (1608–1674)

WHEN Faith and Love which parted from thee never,

Had ripen’d thy just soul to dwell with God,

Meekly thou didst resign this earthly load

Of Death, call’d Life; which us from Life doth sever.

Thy Works and Alms and all thy good endeavour

Staid not behind, nor in the grave were trod;

But as Faith pointed with her golden rod,

Follow’d thee up to joy and bliss for ever.

Love led them on, and Faith who knew them best

Thy hand-maids, clad them o’er with purple beams

And azure wings, that up they flew so drest,

And speak the truth of thee on glorious Theams

Before the Judge, who henceforth bid thee rest

And drink thy fill of pure immortal streams.