Who knows but that his philosophic mind A something, which will surely make mankind I've half a mind to say his very look Doth almost promise us a pleasing book; One thing for him I yet presume to say— His very features show, in all their play, His spirit's power. And now, my friends, I simply this relate- XII. THE FLOWER-QUEEN'S TEARS. (1843.) THE Queen of Flowers, in laughing mood, Once sallied from her solitude; Around her lay her rich domain, Bejeweled by the recent rain. The stately lily, pale and proud, Beneath the drops but slightly bowed; While, o'er the way, with graceful ease, Within its green and fragrant bed, But while the smiling queen of flowers Now every night her tears are shed XIII. THE HUMMING BIRD. (1843.) How beautiful! how beautiful! A floating drop of light! XIV THE WEDDING. (1844.) THE halls were crowded with the gay, The rich profusion of her locks, The flush that mantled o'er her face The hands were joined in plighted faith, The solemn deed was done, The blessing fell from holy lips, The loving twain were one. XV. THE ABSENT ONE. (1844.) Ar morning prayer, while 'round the throne We gather in affection, The vacant seat, with spirit-tone, Speaks ever of the absent one, Yet, when we feel she dreams in bliss, She recks no more his flowing tears, XVI. FAME EPHEMERAL. (1845.) SEEK not for fame; 'tis but the foam, That floats along the shore; XVII. HEAVENWARD BREATHINGS, (1846) O EARTH! thy spell is fading fast, XVIII. DEATH OF "L. E. L.”: IN youth and beauty thou hast silent gone, From all earth's pride and pleasure passed away! But who shall write thy dirge, thou bird-like one? Or who shall chant for thee the mournful lay? Shall sighing friends, with sad and solemn chime, To turn our plaintive mournings into mirth? The laurel wreath around thy pale young brow, But green, and fresh, and beautiful as now, Fair, fragile wand'rer, why so short thy stay, *Mrs. McLean-formerly Miss Landon. |