When I survey the bright celestial sphere
So rich with jewels hung
That Night doth like an Ethiope bride appear,

My soul her wings doth spread and heavenward flies,
The Almighty's mysteries
To read in the large volumes of the skies.

No unregarded star contracts its light
Into so small a character
Removed far from our human sight.

But if we steadfast look, we shall discern
In it, as in some holy book,
How man may heavenly knowledge learn.

For the bright firmament shoots forth no flame
So silent, but is eloquent
In speaking the Creator's name.