Mary Lawrence 1809 Embroidered Verse and Alphabet Sampler. The silk on linen sampler features two different styles of alphabets and reads the following: "Read nature's Book that wonders power revere Who form'd each being for its proper" Sphere, But who to Man superior blifs has giv'n, Blifs which the virtuous find matur'd in Heaven, Yet ah disdain not thou who Sporting gay, Range unconfin'd the tenants of a day, In joy and Freedom let their moments flow, Nor take that life as Which thou canst never bestow.Whatever thy lot, Thankful for what is sent, If rich be lib'ral, And if poor content, With firm submission learn each woe to bear, For all who taste of life, Must taste of care. From my Beginning may the Almighty powers, Blessings bestow in never Ceasing showers, Oh may I happy be and always blest , Of every joy of every wish possess'd, May plenty dissipate all worldly care, And smiling Peace bless each revolving year. Tell me ye knowing and discerning few, Where I may find A Friend both firm and true, Who dares stand by me when in deep Distress, And then his love and friendship most express." The sampler is decorated with a vining floral border and a densely embroidered silk flowers at the bottom center. Signed by Mary Lawrence, and dated 1809. The sampler is in good condition with some loss on the top right corner, the right edge, and the bottom right. There are also a few dark spots. The sampler is mounted on a piece of artist board and lays on top of a protective layer of white linen that is glued down to the board. The sampler is attached along the outside edge of the board, with tiny steel upholstery tacks. The sampler is not glued down. Measures 17" high x 12 ½" wide. Framed in period maple frame with gilt liner which measures 19 ½" high x 15 ¼" wide.