THOUGHTS ON SETTING AN ALARM CLOCK

 Mark the monitory dial,
Set the gong for six a.m.—
Then, until the hour of trial,
Clock a little sleep, pro tem.
 
As I crank the dread alarum
Stern resolve I try to fix:
My ideals, shall I mar 'em
When the awful moment ticks?
 
Heaven strengthen my intention,
Grant me grace my vow to keep:
Would the law enforced Prevention
Of such Cruelty to Sleep!