Reginald Heber

Reginald Heber was an English bishop, poet, and hymn writer. Born on April 21, 1783, he was known for his role as the Bishop of Calcutta and his notable hymns, including "Holy, Holy, Holy" and "From Greenland's Icy Mountains." He served in India, working to improve the conditions and education within the Christian community. He passed away on April 3, 1826, at the age of 42. His contributions to hymnody and his missionary work in India are well-remembered.

April 21, 1783

April 3, 1826

English

Reginald Heber

Sympathy

A knight and a lady once met in a grove
While each was in quest of a fugitive love;
A river ran mournfully murmuring by,
And they wept in its waters for sympathy.

"Oh, never was knight such a sorrow that bore!"
"Oh, never was maid so deserted before!"
"From life and its woes let us instantly fly,
And jump in together for company!"

They searched for an eddy that suited the deed,
But here was a bramble and there was a weed;
"How tiresome it is!" said the fair, with a sigh;
So they sat down to rest them in company.

They gazed at each other, the maid and the knight;
How fair was her form, and how goodly his height!
"One mournful embrace," sobbed the youth, "ere we die!"
So kissing and crying kept company.

"Oh, had I but loved such an angel ...

Reginald Heber