Po

The monument of Mrs. Cowper, erected by her husband in the chancel of St. Peter's church at Berkhamstead, contains the following verses composed by a young lady her niece, the late Lady Walsingham.

Here lies, in early years bereft of life,
The best of mothers, and the kindest wife.
Who neither knew, nor practic'd any art,
Secure in all she wish'd, her husband's heart.
Her love to him still prevalent in death
Pray'd Heaven to bless him with her latest breath.

Still was she studious never to offend,
And glad of an occasion to commend :
With ease would pardon injuries receiv'd,
Nor e'er was chearful when another griev'd.
Despising state, with her own lot content,
Enjoy'd the comforts of a life well-spent.
Resign'd when Heaven demanded back her breath,
Her mind heroic 'midst the pangs of death.

Whoc'er thou art that dost this Tomb draw near,

O stay awhile, and shed a friendly tear,

These lines, tho' weak, are as herself sincere.

The truth and tenderness of this Epitaph will more than compensate with every candid Reader the imperfection ascribed to it by its young and modest Author-To have lost a parent of a character so virtuous and endearing, at an early period of