1847 Oxford night caps. A collection of receipts for making various Beverages used in the university

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While gladsome spirits thronging round
To taste its richness press;
And fair the scene, and loud the sound
Of mirth and happiness !
Bright antidote of sorrow
Some kind enlivening ray
From thee we fain would borrow.
To warm our grateful lay
For oft I ween thy kindling glance
The drooping heart hath cheered :
Poured round the soul a joyous trance,
And visions gay upreared.
Full many a day of gladness
Hath hailed the welcome cheer ;
Full many a thought of sadness
Hath fled, transported, here.
A nd still, through years of fleeting change,
Each passing youthful train,
Ere it might tempt the wide world's range,
Hath passed the cup to drain.
The sky that glows above us
Remains unchanged the same :
But will the friends that love us
Preserve a changeless flame ?