Truth (complete and unabridged)by William Cowperread by Alex Wyndham '...Majestic in its own simplicity. Inscribed above the portal, from afar. Conspicuous as the brightness of a star, Legible only by the light they give, Stand the soul-quickening words—believe, and live...' William Cowper (1731 – 1800) was born in Hertfordshire, England. His hymns and poems are well known all over the world.