第7章

LILY’SMENAGERIE。

[Goethedescribesthismuch-admiredPoem，whichhewroteinhonourofhisloveLily，asbeingdesignedtochangehissurrenderofherintodespair，bydrolly-fretfulimages。]

THERE’Snomenagerie，Ivow，ExcelsmyLily’satthisminute。

Shekeepsthestrangestcreaturesinit，Andcatchesthem，sheknowsnothow。

Oh，howtheyhop，andrun，andrave，Andtheirclipp’dpinionswildlywave，——

Poorprinces，whomustallendureThepangsoflovethatnoughtcancure。

Whatisthefairy’sname？——Is’tLily？——Asknotme！

GivethankstoHeavenifshe’sunknowntothee。

Ohwhatacackling，whatashrieking，Whennearthedoorshetakesherstand，Withherfood-basketinherhand！

Ohwhatacroaking，whatasqueaking！

Aliveallthetreesandthebushesappear，Whiletoherfeetwholetroopsdrawnear。

Theveryfishwithin，thewaterclearSplashwithimpatienceandtheirheadsprotrude。

AndthenshethrowsaroundthefoodWithsuchalook！——theverygodsdelighting(Tosaynoughtofbeasts)。Therebegins，then，abiting，Apicking，apecking，asipping，Andeacho’erthelegsofanotheristripping，Andpushing，andpressing，andflapping，Andchasing，andfuming，andsnapping，Andallforonesmallpieceofbread，Towhich，thoughdry，herfairhandsgiveataste，Asthoughitinambrosiahadbeenplac’d。

Andthenherlook！thetoneWithwhichshecalls：Pipi！Pipi！

WoulddrawJove’seaglefromhisthrone。

Yes，Venus’turtledoves，Iwean，Andthevainpeacocke’en，Wouldcome，Iswear，Soonasthattonehadreach’dthemthroughtheair。

E’enfromaforestdarkhadsheEnticedabear，unlick’d，ill-bred，And，byherwilesalluring，ledTojointhegentlecompany，Untilastameastheywashe：

(Uptoacertainpoint，be’tunderstood！)

Howfair，and，ah，howgoodSheseem’dtobe！Iwouldhavedrain’dmybloodTowatere’enherflow’retssweet。

Thousayest：I！Who？How？Andwhere？——

Well，tobeplain，goodSirs——Iamthebear。

Inanet-apron，caught，alas！

Chain’dbyasilk-threadatherfeet。

ButhowthiswondercametopassI’lltellsomeday，ifyearecurious。

Justnow，mytemper’smuchtoofurious。

Ah，whenI’minthecornerplac’d，Andhearafarthecreaturessnapping，Andseetheflippingandtheflapping，IturnaroundWithgrowlingsound，Andbackwardrunastepinhaste，AndlookaroundWithgrowlingsound。

Thenrunagainastepinhaste，Andtomyformerpostgoround。

Butsuddenlymyangergrows，Amightyspiritfillsmynose，Myinwardfeelingsallrevolt。

Acreaturesuchasthou！adolt！

Pipi，asquirrelablenutstocrack！

IbristleupmyshaggybackUnusedaslavetobe。

I’mlaughedatbyeachtrimandupstarttreeToscorn。Thebowling-greenIfly，Withneatly-mownandwell-keptgrass：

TheboxmakesfacesasIpass，——

IntothedarkestthickethastenI，Hopingto’scapefromthering，Overthepalingstospring！

VainlyIleapandclimb。

Ifeelaleadenspell。

Thatpinionsmeaswell，AndwhenI’mfullyweariedoutintime，Ilaymedownbesidesomemock-cascade，Androllmyselfhalfdead，andfoam，andcry，And，ah！noOreadshearmysigh，Exceptingthoseofchinamade！

But，ah，withsuddenpowerInallmymembersblissfulfeelingsreign！

’Tisshewhosingethyonderinherbower！

Ihearthatdarling，darlingvoiceagain。

Theairiswarm，andteemswithfragranceclear，Singssheperchanceformealonetohear？

Ihaste，andtrampledowntheshrubsamain。

Thetreesmakeway，thebushesallretreat，Andso——thebeastislyingatherfeet。

Shelooksathim：Themonster’sdrollenough！

He’s，forabear，toomild，Yet，foradog，toowild，Soshaggy，clumsy，rough！

Uponhisbackshegentlystrokesherfoot。

HethinkshimselfinParadise。

Whatfeelingsthroughhissevensensesshoot！

Butshelooksonwithcarelesseyes。

Ilickhersoles，andkisshershoes，Asgentlyasabearwellmay。

SoftlyIrise，andwithacleverruseLeaponherknee——OnapropitiousdayShesuffersit。myearsthenticklesshe，Andhitsmeahardblowinwantonplay。

Igrowlwithnew-bornecstasy。

Thenspeakssheinasweetvainjest，IwotAllonsloutdoux！eh！lamenotte！

EtfaitesserviteurCommeunjoliseigneur。

Thussheproceedswithsportandglee。

Hopefillstheoft-deludedbeast。

Yetifonemomenthewouldlazybe，Herfondnessallatoncehathceas’d。

Shedothaflaskofbalsam-firepossess，Sweeterthanhoneybeescanmake，Onedropofwhichshe’llonherfingertake，Whensoften’dbyhisloveandfaithfulness，Wherewithhermonster’sragingthirsttoslake。

Thenleavesmetomyself，andfliesatlast，AndI，unbound，yetprison’dfastBymagic，followinhertrain，Seekforher，tremble，flyagain。

Thehaplesscreaturethustormentethshe，Regardlessofhispleasureorhiswoe。

Ha！ofthalf-open’ddoessheleavethedoorforme，AndsidewayslookstolearnifIwillflyorno。

AndI——Ohgods！yourhandsaloneCanendthespellthat’so’ermethrown。

Freeme，andgratitudemyheartwillfill。

Andyetfromheavenyesendmedownnoaid——

Notquiteinvaindothlifemylimbspervade：

Ifeelit！Strengthisleftmestill。

1775——

TOCHARLOTTE。

’MIDSTthenoiseofmerrimentandglee，’Midstfullmanyasorrow，manyacare，Charlotte，Iremember，werememberthee，How，atevening’shoursofair，Thouakindlyhanddidstreachus，Whenthou，insomehappyplaceWheremorefairisNaturesface，Manyalightly-hiddentraceOfaspiritloveddidstteachus。

Well’tisthatthyworthIrightlyknew，——

ThatI，inthehourwhenfirstwemet，Whilethefirstimpressionfill’dmeyet，Call’dtheethenagirlbothgoodandtrue。

Rear’dinsilence，calmly，knowingnought，Ontheworldwesuddenlyarethrown。

Hundredthousandbillowsroundussport。

Allthingscharmus——manypleasealone，Manygrieveus，andashouronhourisstealing，Toandfroourrestlessnaturessway。

Firstwefeel，andthenwefindeachfeelingBythechangefulworld-streamborneaway。

WellIknow，weoftwithinusfindManyahopeandmanyasmart。

Charlotte，whocanknowourmind？

Charlotte，whocanknowourheart？

Ah！’twouldfainbeunderstood，’twouldfaino’erflowInsomecreature’sfellow-feelingsblest，And，withtrust，intwofoldmeasureknowAllthegriefandjoyinNature’sbreast。

Thenthineeyeisoftaroundtheecast，Butinvain，forallseemsclosedforever。

Thusthefairestpartoflifeismadlypass’dFreefromstorm，butrestingnever：

Tothysorrowthou’rtto-dayrepell’dBywhatyesterdayobey’dthee。

CanthatworldbytheebeworthyheldWhichsooftbetray’dthee？

Which，’midallthypleasuresandthypains，Livedinselfish，unconcern’drepose？

See，thesoulitssecretcellsregains，Andtheheart——makeshastetoclose。

ThusfoundIthee，andgladlywenttomeetthee。

She’sworthyofalllove！Icried，Andpray’dthatHeavenwithpurestblissmightgreetthee，Whichinthyfrienditrichlyhathsupplied。

1776。*——

LOVE’SDISTRESSES。

WHOwillhearme？WhomshallIlamentto？

Whowouldpitymethatheardmysorrows？

Ah，thelipthaterstsomanyrapturesUsedtotaste，andusedtogiveresponsive，Nowiscloven，anditpainsmesorely。

AnditisnotthusseverelywoundedBymymistresshavingcaughtmefiercely，Andthengentlybittenme，intendingTosecureherfriendmorefirmlytoher：

No，mytenderlipiscrack’dthus，onlyBythewinds，o’errimeandfrostproceeding，Pointed，sharp，unloving，havingmetme。

Nowthenoblegrape’sbrightjuicecommingledWiththebee’ssweetjuice，uponthefireOfmyhearth，shalleasemeofmytorment。

Ah，whatusewillallthisbe，ifwithitLoveaddsnotadropofhisownbalsam？

1789。*——

THEMUSAGETES。

INthedeepestnightsofWinterTotheMuseskindoftcriedI：

Notarayofmornisgleaming，Notasignofdaylightbreaking。

Bring，then，atthefittingmoment，Bringthelamp’ssoftglimm’ringlustre，’SteadofPhoebusandAurora，Toenlivenmystilllabours！

Yettheyleftmeinmyslumbers，Dullandunrefreshing，lying，Andtoeachlate-waken’dmorningFollow’ddaysdevoidofprofit。

Whenatlengthreturn’dthespring-time，TothenightingalesthusspakeI：

Darlingnightingales，oh，beatyeEarly，earlyatmywindow，——

WakemefromtheheavyslumberThatchainsdowntheyouthsostrongly！

Yetthelove-o’erflowingsongstersTheirsweetmelodiesprotractedThroughthenightbeforemywindow，Keptawakemylovingspirit，RousingnewandtenderyearningsInmynewly-waken’dbosom。

Andthenightthusfleetedo’erme，AndAurorafoundmesleeping，——

Ay，thesuncouldscarcearouseme。

NowatlengthiscometheSummer，AndtheearlyflysobusyDrawsmefrommypleasingslumbersAtthefirst-bornmorning-glimmer。

Mercilesslythenreturnsshe，Thoughthehalf-arousedoneoftenScaresherfromhimwithimpatience，Andshelureshershamelesssisters，SothatfrommywearyeyelidsKindlysleeperelongisdriven。

FrommycouchthenboldlyspringI，AndIseekthedarlingMuses，inthebeechen-groveIfindthem，Fullofpieasuretoreceiveme。

AndtothetormentinginsectsOweImanyagoldenhour。

Thusbeye，unwelcomebeings，Highlyvaluedbythepoet，Asthefliesmynumberstellof。

1798——

MORNINGLAMENT。

OHthoucrueldeadly-lovelymaiden，TellmewhatgreatsinhaveIcommitted，Thatthoukeep’stmetotherackthusfasten’d，Thatthouhastthysolemnpromisebroken？

’Twasbutyestere’enthatthouwithfondnessPress’dmyhand，andthesesweetaccentsmurmured：

Yes，I’llcome，I’llcomewhenmornapproacheth，Come，myfriend，fullsurelytothychamber。

OnthelatchIleftmydoors，unfasten’d，Havingfirstwithcaretriedallthehinges，Andrejoic’drightwelltofindtheycreak’dnot。

Whatanightofexpectationpass’dI！

ForIwatch’d，andev’rychimeInumber’d。

IfperchanceIsleptafewshortmoments，Stillmyheartremain’dawakeforever，Andawokemefrommygentleslumbers。

Yes，thenbless’dInight’so’erhangingdarkness，Thatsocalmlycover’dallthingsroundme。

Ienjoy’dtheuniversalsilence，WhileIlisten’deverinthesilence，Ifperchancetheslightestsoundswerestirring。

Hadsheonlythoughts，mythoughtsresembling，Hadsheonlyfeelings，likemyfeelings，Shewouldnotawaitthedawnofmorning。

But，erethis，wouldsurelyhavebeenwithme。

Skipp’dakittenontheflooraboveme，Scratch’damouseapanelinthecorner，Wasthereinthehousetheslightestmotion，EverhopedIthatIheardthyfootstep，EverthoughtIthatIheardtheecoming。

AndsolayIlong，andeverlonger，Andalreadywasthedaylightdawning，Andbothhereandthereweresignsofmovement。

Isityondoor？Wereitmydooronly！

InmybedIlean’duponmyelbow，Lookingtow’rdthedoor，nowhalf-apparent，Ifperchanceitmightnotbeinmotion。

Boththewingsuponthelatchcontinued，Onthequiethingescalmlyhanging。

Andthedaygrewbrightandbrighterever。

AndIheardmyneighbour’sdoorunbolted，Ashewenttoearnhisdailywages，AnderelongIheardthewaggonsrumbling，Andthecitygateswerealsoopen’d，Whilethemarket-place，inev’rycorner，Teem’dwithlifeandbustleandconfusion。

InthehousewasgoingnowandcomingUpanddownthestairs，anddoorswerecreakingBackwardsnow，nowforwards，——footstepsclatter’dYet，asthoughitwereathingall-living，Frommycherish’dhopeIcouldnottearme。

Whenatlengththesun，inhatedsplendour。

Felluponmywalls，uponmywindows，UpIsprang，andhasten’dtothegarden，Theretoblendmybreath，sohotandyearning，Withthecoolrefreshingmorningbreezes，And，itmightbe，eventheretomeetthee：

ButIcannotfindtheeinthearbour，Ortheavenueofloftylindens。

1789。*——

THEVISIT。

FAINhadIto-daysurprisedmymistress，ButsoonfoundIthatherdoorwasfasten’d。

YetIhadthekeysafeinmypocket，AndthedarlingdoorIopen’dsoftly！

IntheparlourfoundInotthemaiden，Foundthemaidennotwithinhercloset，Thenherchamber-doorIgentlyopen’d，WhenIfoundherwrapp’dinpleasingslumbers，Fullydress’d，andlyingonthesofa。

Whileatworkhadslumberstoleno’erher。

ForherknittingandherneedlefoundI

Restinginherfoldedbandssotender。

AndIplacedmyselfbesidehersoftly，Andheldcounsel，whetherIshouldwakeher。

ThenIlookeduponthebeauteousquietThatonhersweeteyelidswasreposingOnherlipswassilenttruthdepicted，Onhercheekshadlovelinessitsdwelling，AndthepurenessofaheartunsulliedInherbosomevermorewasheaving。

Allherlimbsweregracefullyreclining，Setatrestbysweetandgodlikebalsam。

GladlysatI，andthecontemplationHeldthestrongdesireIfelttowakeherFirmerandfirmerdown，withmysticfetters。

Oh，thoulove，methought，Iseethatslumber，Slumberthatbetrayetheachfalsefeature，Cannotinjurethee，cannoughtdiscoverThatcouldservetoharmthyfriend’ssoftfeelings。

Nowthybeauteouseyesarefirmlyclosed，That，whenopen，formmineonlyrapture。

Andthysweetlipsaredevoidofmotion，Motionlessforspeakingorforkissing。

Loosen’darethesoftandmagicfettersOfthinearms，sowonttotwinearoundme，Andthehand，theravishingcompanionOfthysweetcaresses，liesunmoving。

Weremythoughtsoftheebutbasedonerror，WeretheloveIbeartheeself-deception，Imustnowhavefounditout，sinceAmorIs，withouthisbandage，placedbesideme。

LongIsatthus，fullofheartfeltpleasureAtmylove，andathermatchlessmerit。

Shehadsodelightedmewhileslumbering，ThatIcouldnotventuretoawakeher。

ThenIonthelittletablenearherSoftlyplacedtwooranges，tworoses。

Gently，gentlystoleIfromherchamber。

Whenhereyesthedarlingoneshallopen，Shewillstraightwayspythesecolourdpresents，Andthefriendlygiftwillviewwithwonder，Forthedoorwillstillremainunopen’d。

IfperchanceIseeto-nighttheangel，Howwillsherejoice，——rewardmedoublyForthissacrificeoffondaffection！

1765——

THEMAGICNET。

DoIseeacontestyonder？

SeeImiraclesorpastimes？

Beauteousurchins，fiveinnumber，’Gainstfivesistersfaircontending，——

Measuredisthetimethey’rebeating——

Atabrightenchantress’bidding。

Glitt’ringspearsbysomearewielded，Threadsareothersnimblytwining，Sothatintheirsnares，theweaponsOnewouldthink，mustneedsbecaptured，Soon，intruth，thespearsareprison’d。

Yetthey，inthegentlewar-dance，OnebyoneescapetheirfettersIntherowofloopssotender，ThatmakehastetoseizeafreeoneSoonastheyreleaseacaptive。

Sowithcontests，strivings，triumphs，Flyingnow，andnowreturning，Isanartfulnetsoonwoven，Initswhitenesslikethesnow-flakes，That，fromlightamidthedarkness，Drawtheirstreakylinessovaried，Ase’encoloursscarcecandrawthem。

WhoshallnowreceivethatgarmentFarbeyondallotherswish’d-for？

Whomourmuch-lovedmistressfavourAsherownacknowledgedservant？

IamblestbykindlyFortune’sTokenstrue，insilencepray’dfor！

AndIfeelmyselfheldcaptive，Toherservicenowdevoted。

Yet，e’enwhileI，thusenraptured，Thusadorn’d，amproudlywand’ring，See！yonwantonsareentwining，Voidofstrife，withsecretardour，Othernets，eachfineandfiner，Threadsoftwilightinterweaving，Moonbeamssweet，night-violets’balsam。

Erethenetisnoticedbyus，Isahappieroneimprison’d，Whomwe，oneandall，togetherGreetwithenvyandwithblessings。

1803——

THEGOBLET。

ONCEIheldawell-carvedbrimminggoblet，——

Inmytwohandstightlyclasp’dIheldit，Eagerlythesweetwinesipp’dIfromit，Seekingtheretodrownallcareandsorrow。

Amorenter’din，andfoundmesitting，Andhegentlysmiledinmodestfashion，Smiledasthoughthefoolishonehepitied。

Friend，Iknowafarmorebeauteousvessel，Onewhereintosinkthyspiritwholly。

Say，whatwiltthougiveme，ifIgrantit，Andwithothernectarfillitforthee？

Oh，howkindlyhathhekepthispromise！

Fortome，wholonghadyearn’d，hegrantedThee，myLida，fill’dwithsoftaffection。

WhenIclaspminearmsaroundtheefondly，WhenIdrinkinlove’slong-hoardedbalsamFromthydarlinglipssotrue，sofaithful，Fill’dwithblissthusspeakItomyspiritNo！avesselsuchasthis，saveAmorNevergodhathfashion’dorbeenlordof！

Suchaformwasne’erproducedbyVulcanWithhiscunning，reason-giftedhammers！

Ontheleaf-crown’dmountainsmayLyaeusBidhisFauns，theoldestandthewisest，Passthechoicestclustersthroughthewinepress，Andhimselfwatcho’erthefermentation：

Suchadraughtnotoilcane’erprocurehim！

1781——

TOTHEGRASSHOPPER。

AFTERANACREON。

[ThestrongresemblanceofthisfinepoemtoCowley’sOdebearingthesamename，andbeginningHappyinsect！whatcanbe，willbeatonceseen。]

HAPPYartthou，darlinginsect，Who，uponthetrees’tallbranches，Byamodestdraughtinspired，Singing，likeamonarchlivest！

ThoupossessestasthyportionAllthatontheplainsthouseest，Allthatbythehoursisbroughtthee’Mongstthehusbandmenthoulivest，Asafriend，uninjuredbythem，Thouwhommortalslovetohonour，HeraldsweetofsweetSpring’sadvent！

Yes，thou’rtlovedbyalltheMuses，Phoebus’self，too，needsmustlovethee。

Theytheirsilvervoicesgavethee，Agecanneverstealuponthee。

Wiseandgentlefriendofpoets，Bornacreaturefleshless，bloodless，ThoughEarth’sdaughter，freefromsuff’ring，Tothegodse’enalmostequal。

1781——

FROM’THESORROWSOFYOUNGWERTHER。’

[Prefixedtothesecondedition。]

EV’RYyouthforlove’ssweetportionsighs，Ev’rymaidensighstowinman’slove。

Why，alas！shouldbitterpainariseFromthenoblestpassionthatweprove？

Thou，kindsoul，bewailest，lov’sthimwell，Fromdisgracehismemory’ssavedbythee。

Lo，hisspiritsignsfromoutitscell：

BEAMAN，NORSEEKTOFOLLOWME。

1775——

TRILOGYOFPASSION。

I。TOWERTHER。

[Thispoem，writtenattheageofseventy-five，wasappendedtoaneditionof’Werther，’publishedatthattime。]

ONCEmore，then，much-weptshadow，thoudostdareBoldlytofacetheday’sclearlight，Tomeetmeonfreshbloomingmeadowsfair，Anddostnottrembleatmysight。

Thosehappytimesappearreturn’doncemore。

Whenononefieldwequaff’drefreshingdew，And，whentheday’sunwelcometoilswereo’er，Thefarewellsunbeamsbless’dourravish’dview。

Fatebadetheego，——tolingerherewasmine，——

Goingthefirst，thesmallerlosswasthine。

Thelifeofmanappearsagloriousfate：

Thedayhowlovely，andthenighthowgreat！

Andwe’midParadise-likerapturesplac’d，Thesun’sbrightgloryscarcehavelearn’dtotaste。

Whenstrangecontendingfeelingsdimlycover，Nowus，andnowtheformsthatroundushover。

One’sfeelingsbynootheraresupplied，’Tisdarkwithout，ifallisbrightinside。

Anoutwardbrightnessveilsmysadden’dmood，WhenFortunesmiles，——howseldomunderstood！

Nowthinkwethatweknowher，andwithmightAwoman’sbeauteousforminstilsdelight。

Theyouth，asgladasinhisinfancy，Thespring-timetreads，asthoughthespringwereheRavish’d，amazed，heasks，howthisisdone？

Helooksaround，theworldappearshisown。

Withcarelessspeedhewandersonthroughspace，Norwalls，norpalacescancheckhisrace。

Assomegayflightofbirdsroundtree-topsplays，So’tiswithhimwhoroundhismistressstrays。

HeseeksfromAEther，whichhe’dleavebehindhim，Thefaithfullookthatfondlyservestobindhim。

Yetfirsttooearlywarn’d，andthentoolate，Hefeelshisflightrestrain’d，iscaptur’dstraightTomeetagainissweet，topartissad，Againtomeetagainisstillmoreglad，Andyearsinoneshortmomentareenshrin’d。

But，oh，theharshfarewellishidbehind！

Thousmilest，friend，withfittingthoughtsinspired。

Byadreadpartingwasthyfameacquired，Thymournfuldestinywesorrow’do’er，Forwealandwoethouleft’stusevermore，Andthenagainthepassions’waveringforceDrewusalonginlabyrinthinecourse。

Andwe，consumedbyconstantmisery，Atlengthmustpart——andpartingistodie！

Howmovingisit，whentheminstrelsings，To’scapethedeaththatseparationbrings！

Ohgrant，somegod，toonewhosuffersso，Totell，half-guilty，hissadtaleofwoe1824

II。ELEGY。

Whenmanhadceasedtoutterhislament，Agodthenletmetellmytaleofsorrow。

WHAThopeofoncemoremeetingistherenowInthestill-closedblossomsofthisday？

Bothheavenandhellthrownopenseestthou。

Whatwav’ringthoughtswithinthebosomplayNolongerdoubt！Descendingfromthesky，Sheliftstheeinherarmstorealmsonhigh。

AndthusthouintoParadisewertbrought，Asworthyofapureandendlesslife。

Nothingwasleft，nowish，nohope，nothought，Herewastheboundaryofthineinmoststrife：

Andseeingonesofair，soglorified，Thefountofyearningtearswasstraightwaydried。

Nomotionstirr’dtheday’srevolvingwheel，Intheirownfronttheminutesseem’dtogo。

Theeveningkiss，atrueandbindingseal，Ne’erchangingtillthemorrow’ssunlightglow。

Thehoursresembledsistersastheywent。

Yeteachonefromanotherdifferent。

Thelasthour’skiss，sosadlysweet，effac’dAbeauteousnetworkofentwininglove。

Nowonthethresholdpausethefeet，nowhaste。

Asthoughaflamingcherubbadethemmove。

Theunwillingeyethedarkroadwanderso’er，Backwarditlooks，butcloseditseesthedoor。

Andnowwithinitselfisclosedthisbreast，Asthoughitne’erwereopen，andasthough，Vyingwithev’rystar，nomomentsblestHad，initspresence，feltakindlingglow。

Sadness，reproach，repentance，weightofcare，Hangheavyonitinthesultryair。

Isnottheworldstillleft？Therockysteeps，Aretheywithholyshadesnolongercrown’d？

Growsnottheharvestripe？NolongercreepsTheespalierbythestream，——thecopsearound？

Dothnotthewondrousarchofheavenstillrise，Nowrichinshape，nowshapelesstotheeyes？

As，seraph-like，fromoutthedarkclouds’chorus，Withsoftnesswoven，graceful，light，andfair，ResemblingHer，intheblueaethero’erus，Aslenderfigurehoversintheair，——

Thusdidstthouseeherjoyouslyadvance，Thefairestofthefairestinthedance。

YetbutamomentdostthouboldlydareToclaspanairyforminsteadofhers。

Backtothineheart！thou’ltfinditbetterthere，ForthereinchangefulguiseherimagestirsWhaterstwasone，tomanyturnethfast，Inthousandforms，eachdearerthanthelast。

Asatthedoor，onmeetinglingerdshe，Andstepbystepmyfaithfulardourbless’d，Forthelastkissherselfentreatedme，Andonmylipsthelastlastkissimpress’d，——

Thusclearlytraced，thelov’done’sformweview，Withflamesengravenonaheartsotrue，——

Aheartthat，firmassomeembattledtower，Itselfforher，herinitselfreveres，Forherrejoicesinitslastingpower，Consciousalone，whensheherselfappears。

Feelsitselffreerinsosweetathrall，Andonlybeatstogiveherthanksinall。

Thepowerofloving，andallyearningsighsForloveresponsivewereeffacedanddrown’d。

WhilelonginghopeforjoyousenterpriseWasform’d，andrapidactionstraightwayfound。

Iflovecane’eralovingoneinspire，Mostlovinglyitgavemenowitsfire。

And’twasthroughher！——aninwardsorrowlayOnsoulandbody，heavilyoppress’d。

Tomournfulphantomswasmysightaprey，Inthedrearvoidofasadtorturedbreast。

Nowonthewell-knownthresholdHopehathsmil’d，Herselfappearethinthesunlightmild。

UntothepeaceofGod，which，asweread，Blessethusmorethanreasone’erbathdone，Love’shappypeacewouldIcompareindeed，Wheninthepresenceofthedearestone。

Therereststheheart，andtherethatsweetestthought，Thethoughtofbeinghers，ischeck’dbynought。

Inthepurebosomdothayearningfloat，Untoaholier，purer，unknownBeingItsgratefulaspirationtodevote，TheEver-Namelessthenunriddledseeing。

Wecallit：piety！——suchblestdelightIfeelasharein，whenbeforehersight。

Beforehersight，as’neaththesun’shotray，Beforeherbreath，as’neaththespring’ssoftwind，InitsdeepwintrycavernmeltsawaySelf-love，solonginicychainsconfin’d。

Noselfishnessandnoself-willarenigh，Foratheradventtheywereforcedtofly。

Itseemsasthoughshesaid：AshourspassbyTheyspreadbeforeuslifewithkindlyplan。

Smallknowledgedidtheyesterdaysupply，Toknowthemorrowisconceal’dfromman。

Andifthethoughtofeveningmademestart，Thesunatsettinggladden’dstraightmyheart。

Act，then，asI，andlook，withjoyousmind，Themomentintheface。norlingerthou！

Meetitwithspeed，sofraughtwithlife，sokindInaction，andinlovesoradiantnow。

Letallthingsbewherethouart，childlikeever，Thusthoultbeall，thus，thou’ltbevanquish’dnever。

Thouspeakestwell，methought，forasthyguideThemoment’sfavourdidagodassign，Andeachonefeelshimselfwhenbythyside，Fate’sfav’riteinamomentsodivine。

Itrembleatthylookthatbidsmego，WhyshouldIcaresuchwisdomvasttoknow？

NowamIfar！AndwhatwouldbestbefitThepresentminute？Icouldscarcelytell。

Fullmanyarichpossessionoffersit，Thesebutoffend，andIwouldfainrepel。

Yearningsunquenchablestilldrivemeon，Allcounsel，saveunboundedtears，isgone。

Flowon，flowoninnever-ceasingcourse，Yetmayyeneverquenchmyinwardfire！

Withinmybosomheavesamightyforce，Wheredeathandlifecontendincombatdire。

Medicinesmayservethebody’spangstostill。

Noughtbutthespiritfailsinstrengthofwill，——

Failsinconception。whereforefailsitso？

Athousandtimesherimageitportrays。

Enchantingnow，andnowcompell’dtogo，Nowindistinct，nowclothedinpurestrays！

Howcouldthesmallestcomfortherebeflowing？

Theebbandflood，thecomingandthegoing！

******

Leavemeherenow，mylife’scompanionstrue！

Leavemealoneonrock，inmoorandheath。

Butcourage！openliestheworldtoyou，Thegloriousheavensabove，theearthbeneath。

Observe，investigate，withsearchingeyes，Andnaturewilldisclosehermysteries。

Tomeisall，Itomyselfamlost，Whotheimmortals’fav’riteerstwasthought。

They，tempting，sentPandorastomycost，Sorichinwealth，withdangerfarmorefraught。

Theyurgedmetothoselips，withrapturecrown’d，Desertedme，andhurl’dmetotheground。

1823。

III。ATONEMENT。

[Composed，when74yearsold，foraPolishlady，whoexcelledinplayingonthepianoforte。]

PASSIONbringsreason——whocanpacifyAnanguish’dheartwhoselosshathbeensogreat？

Wherearethehoursthatfledsoswiftlyby？

Invainthefairestthoudidstgainfromfate。

Sadisthesoul，confusedtheenterprise。

Thegloriousworld，howonthesenseitdies！

Inmilliontonesentwinedforevermore，Musicwithangel-pinionshoversthere，Topierceman’sbeingtoitsinmostcore，Eternalbeautyhasitsfruittobear。

Theeyegrowsmoist，inyearningsblestreveresThegodlikeworthofmusicasoftears。

Andsothelighten’dheartsoonlearnstoseeThatitstilllives，andbeats，andoughttobeat，Off’ringitselfwithjoyandwillingly，Ingratefulpaymentforagiftsosweet。

Andthenwasfelt，——ohmayitconstantprove！——

Thetwofoldblissofmusicandoflove。

1823——

THEremembranceoftheGoodKeepusevergladinmood。

TheremembranceoftheFairMakesamortalraptureshare。

Theremembranceofone’sLoveBlestIs，ifitconstantprove。

TheremembranceoftheOneIsthegreatestjoythat’sknown。

1828——

[Writtenattheageof77。]

WHENIwasstillayouthfulwight，Sofullofenjoymentandmerry，Thepaintersusedtoassert，inspite，Thatmyfeaturesweresmall——yes，very。

YetthenfullmanyabeauteouschildWithtrueaffectionuponmesmil’d。

NowasagreybeardIsithereinstate，Bystreetandbylaneheldinawe，sirs。

Andmaybeseen，likeoldFredericktheGreat，Onpipebowls，oncups，andonsaucers。

Yetthebeauteousmaidens，theykeepafar。

Ohvisionofyouth！Ohgoldenstar！

1826——

FOREVER。

THEhappinessthatman，whilstprison’dhere，Iswontwithheavenlyrapturetocompare，——

TheharmonyofTruth，fromwaveringclear，——

OfFriendshipthatisfreefromdoubtingcare，——

ThelightwhichinstraythoughtsalonecancheerThewise，——thebardaloneinvisionsfair，——

InmybesthoursIfoundinherallthis，Andmademineown，tomineexceedingbliss。

1820。*——

FROMANALBUMOF1604。

HOPEprovideswingstothought，andlovetohope。

RiseuptoCynthia，love，whennightisclearest，Andsay，thatasonhighherfigurechangeth，So，uponearth，myjoydecaysandgrows。

Andwhisperinherearwithmodestsoftness，Howdoubtofthungitshead，andtruthoftwept。

Andohyethoughts，distrustfullyinclined，Ifyearethereforebythelovedonechided，Answer：’tistrueyechange，butalternot，Assheremainsthesame，yetchangethever。

Doubtmayinvadetheheart，butpoisonsnot，Forloveissweeter，bysuspicionflavour’d。

Ifitwithangerovercaststheeye，Andheaven’sbrightpurityperverselyblackens，Thenzephyr-sighsstraightscarethecloudsaway，And，changedtotears，dissolvethemintorain。

Thought，hope，andloveremainthereasbefore，TillCynthiagleamsuponmeasofold。

1820。*——

LINESONSEEINGSCHILLER’SSKULL。

[ThiscuriousimitationoftheternarymetreofDantewaswrittenattheageof77。]

WITHINagloomycharnel-houseonedayIview’dthecountlessskulls，sostrangelymated，AndofoldtimesIthought，thatnowweregrey。

Closepack’dtheystand，thatoncesofiercelyhated，Andhardybones，thattothedeathcontended，Arelyingcross’d，——tolieforever，fated。

Whatheldthosecrookedshoulder-bladessuspended？

Noonenowasks。andlimbswithvigourfired，Thehand，thefoot——theiruseinlifeisended。

Vainlyyesoughtthetombforrestwhentired。

Peaceinthegravemaynotbeyours。ye’redrivenBackintodaylightbyaforceinspired。

Butnonecanlovethewither’dhusk，thoughevenAgloriousnoblekernelitcontained。

Tome，anadept，wasthewritinggivenWhichnottoallitsholysenseexplained，When’midthecrowd，theiricyshadowsflinging，Isawaform，thatgloriousstillremained。

Andeventhere，wheremouldanddampwereclinging，Gavemeablest，arapture-fraughtemotion，Asthoughfromdeathalivingfountwerespringing。

WhatmysticjoyIfelt！Whatraptdevotion！

Thatform，howpregnantwithagodliketrace！

Alook，howdiditwhirlmetow’rdthatoceanWhoserollingbillowsmightiershapesembrace！

Mysteriousvessel！Oraclehowdear！

Eventograsptheeismyhandtoobase，ExcepttostealtheefromthyprisonhereWithpiouspurpose，anddevoutlygoBacktotheair，freethoughts，andsunlightclear。

Whatgreatergaininlifecanmane’erknowThanwhenGod-NaturewilltohimexplainHowintoSpiritsteadfastnessmayflow，Howsteadfast，too，theSpirit-Bornremain。

1826——

ROYALPRAYER。

HA，Iamthelordofearth！Thenoble，Who’reinmyservice，loveme。

Ha，Iamthelordofearth！Thenoble，O’erwhommyswayextendeth，loveI。

Oh，grantme，GodinHeaven，thatImayne’erDispensewithloftinessandlove！

1815。*——

HUMANFEELINGS。

AH，yegods！yegreatimmortalsInthespaciousheavensaboveus！

WouldyeonthisearthbutgiveusSteadfastmindsanddauntlesscourageWe，ohkindlyones，wouldleaveyouAllyourspaciousheavensaboveus！

1815。*——

ONTHEDIVAN。

HEwhoknowshimselfandothersHerewillalsosee，ThattheEastandWest，likebrothers，Partedne’ershallbe。

Thoughtfullytofloatforever’Tweentwoworlds，beman’sendeavour！

SobetweentheEastandWestTorevolve，bemybehest！

1833。*——

EXPLANATIONOFANANCIENTWOODCUT，REPRESENTING

HANSSACHS’POETICALMISSION。

[IfeelconsiderablehesitationinventuringtoofferthisversionofapoemwhichCarlyledescribestobe’abeautifulpiece(averyHansSacksbeatified，bothincharacterandstyle)，whichwewishtherewasanypossibilityoftranslating。’ThereaderwillbeawarethatHansSachswasthecelebratedMinstrel-

CobblerofNuremberg，whoWrote208plays，1700comictales，andbetween4000and5000lyricpoems。Heflourishedthroughoutalmostthewholeofthe16thcentury。]

EARLYwithinhisworkshophere，OnSundaysstandsourmasterdear。

Hisdirtyapronheputsaway，Andwearsacleanlydoubletto-day。

Letswax’dthread，hammer，andpincersrest，Andlayshisawlwithinhischest。

TheseventhdayhetakesreposeFrommanypullsandmanyblows。

Soonasthespring-sunmeetshisview，Reposebegetshimlabouranew。

HefeelsthatheholdswithinhisbrainAlittleworld，thatbroodsthereamain，Andthatbeginstoactandtolive，Whichhetootherswouldgladlygive。

Hehadaskilfuleyeandtrue，Andwasfullkindandlovingtoo。

Forcontemplation，clearandpure，——

Formakingallhisownagain，sure。

Hehadatonguethatcharm’dwhen’twasheard，Andgracefulandlightflow’dev’ryword。

WhichmadetheMusesinhimrejoice，TheMaster-singeroftheirchoice。

Andnowamaidenenter’dthere，Withswellingbreast，andbodyfair。

Withfootingfirmshetookherplace，Andmovedwithstately，noblegrace。

Shedidnotwalkinwantonmood，Norlookaroundwithglanceslewd。

Sheheldameasureinherhand，Hergirdlewasagoldenband，Awreathofcornwasonherhead，Hereyetheday’sbrightlustreshed。

HernameishonestIndustry，Else，Justice，Magnanimity。

Sheenter’dwithakindlygreeting。

Hefeltnowonderatthemeeting，For，kindandfairasshemightbe，Helonghadknownher，fanciedhe。

Ihaveselectedthee，shesaid，Fromallwhoearth’swildmazestread，Thatthoushouldsthaveclear-sightedsense，Andnoughtthat’swrongshouldste’ercommence。

Whenothersruninstrangeconfusion，ThygazeshallseethrougheachillusionWhenothersdolefullycomplain，Thycausewithjestingthoushaltgain，Honourandrightshaltvalueduly，Ineverythingactsimply，truly，——

Virtueandgodlinessproclaim，Andcallallevilbyitsname，Noughtsoftendown，attemptnoquibble，Noughtpolishup，noughtvainlyscribble。

Theworldshallstandbeforethee，then，AsseenbyAlbertDurer’sken，Inmanlinessandchangelesslife，Ininwardstrength，withfirmnessrife。

FairNature’sGeniusbythehandShallleadtheeonthrougheveryland，Teachtheeeachdifferentlifetoscan，Showtheethewondrouswaysofman，Hisshifts，confusions，thrustings，anddrubbings，Pushings，tearings，pressings，andrubbings。

Thevaryingmadnessofthecrew，Theanthill’sravingsbringtoview。

Butthoushaltseeallthisexpress’d，Asthough’twereinamagicchest。

Writethesethingsdownforfolksonearth，Inhopestheymaytowitgivebirth——

Thensheawindowopen’dwide，Andshow’damotleycrowdoutside，Allkindsofbeings’neaththesky，Asinhiswritingsonemayspy。

Ourmasterdearwas，afterthis，OnNaturethinking，fullofbliss，Whentow’rdhim，fromtheothersideHesawanagedwomanglide。

Thenameshebears，Historia，Mythologia，Fabula。

WithfootsteptotteringandunstableShedragg’dalargeandwoodencarved-table，Where，withwidesleevesandhumanmien，TheLordwascatechizingseen。

Adam，Eve，Eden，theSerpent’sseduction，GomorrahandSodom’sawfuldestruction，Thetwelveillustriouswomen，too，Thatmirrorofhonourbroughttoview。

Allkindsofbloodthirstiness，murder，andsin，Thetwelvewickedtyrantsalsowerein，Andallkindsofgoodlydoctrineandlaw。

SaintPeterwithhisscourgeyousaw，Withtheworld’swaysdissatisfied，AndbyourLordwithpowersupplied。

Hertrainanddress，behindandbefore，Ande’entheseams，werepaintedo’erWithtalesofworldlyvirtueandcrime——

Ourmasterview’dallthisforatime。

Thesightrightgladlyhesurvey’d，Sousefulforhiminhistrade，WhencehewasabletoprocureExamplegoodandpreceptsure，Recountingallwithtruthfulcare，Asthoughhehadbeenpresentthere。

Hisspiritseem’dfromearthtofly，Hene’erhadturnedawayhiseye，DidhenotjustbehindhimhearArattleofbellsapproachingnear。

Andnowafooldothcatchhiseye，Withgoatandape’sleapdrawingnighAmerryinterludepreparingWithfooleriesandjestsunsparing。

Behindhim，inalinedrawnout，Hedragg’dallfools，theleanandstout，Thegreatandlittle，theemptyandfull，Alltoowitty，andalltoodull，Alashheflourish’doverhead，Asthoughadanceofapesheled，Abusingthemwithbitterness，Asthoughhiswrathwouldne’ergrowless。

Whileonthissightourmastergazed，Hisheadwasgrowingwell-nighcrazed：

Whatwordsforallcouldhee’erfind，Couldsuchamedleybecombined？

CouldhecontinuewithdelightForevermoretosingandwrite？

Whenlo，fromoutacloud’sdarkbedInattheupperwindowspedTheMuse，inallhermajesty，Asfairasourlovedmaidswesee。

WithclearnessshearoundhimthrewHertruth，thateverstrongergrew。

I，toordaintheecome，shespake：

Soprosper，andmyblessingtake！

Theholyfirethatslumb’ringliesWithinthee，inbrightflamesshallrise。

Yetthatthineever-restlesslifeMaystillwithkindlystrengthberife，I，forthineinwardspirit’scalm。

Havegrantednourishmentandbalm，Thatrapturemaythysoulimbue，Likesomefairblossombathedindew——

BehindhishousethensecretlyOutsidethedoorwaypointedshe，Where，inashadygarden-nook，AbeauteousmaidwithdowncastlookWassittingwhereastreamwasflowing，Withelderbushesnearitgrowing，Shesatbeneathanappletree，Andnoughtaroundherseem’dtosee。

Herlapwasfullofrosesfair，Whichinawreathshetwinedwithcare。

And，withthem，leavesandblossomsblended：

Forwhomwasthatsweetwreathintended？

Thussatshe，modestandretired，Herbosomthrobb’d，withhopeinspired。

Suchdeepforebodingsfill’dhermind，Noroomforwishingcouldshefind，Andwiththethoughtsthato’eritflew，Perchanceasighwasmingledtoo。

Butwhyshouldsorrowcloudthybrow？

That，dearestlove，whichfillstheenowIsfraughtwithjoyandecstasy。

Preparedinonealoneforthee，ThathewithinthineeyemayfindSolacewhenfortuneprovesunkind，Andbenewbornthroughmanyakiss，Thathereceiveswithinwardbliss。

When’erheclaspstheetohisbreast。

MayhefromallhistoilsfindrestWhenheinthydeararmsshallsink，Mayhenewlifeandvigourdrink：

Freshjoysofyouthshaltthouobtain，Inmerryjestrejoiceagain。

Withrailleryandroguishspite，Thounowshaltteasehim，nowdelight。

ThusLovewillnevermoregrowold，Thuswilltheminstrelne’erbecold！

Whilehethuslives，insecretbless’d，AbovehiminthecloudsdothrestAnoak-wreath，verdantandsublime，Placedonhisbrowinafter-time。

Whiletheyarebanish’dtotheslough，Whotheirgreatmasterdisavow。

1776——

SONNETS——

LovinglyI’llsingoflove。

Evercomesshefromabove——

THEFRIENDLYMEETING。

INspreadingmantletomychinconceald，Itrodtherockypath，sosteepandgrey，ThentothewintryplainIbentmywayUneasily，toflightmybosomsteel’d。

Butsuddenwasthenewborndayreveal’d：

Amaidencame，inheavenlybrightarray，Likethefaircreaturesofthepoet’slayInrealmsofsong。Myyearningheartwasheal’d。

Yetturn’dIthence，tillshehadonwardpass’d，WhilecloserstillthefoldstodrawItried，Asthoughwithheatself-kindledtogrowwarm。

Butfollow’dher。Shestood。Thediewascast！

NomorewithinmymantlecouldIhide。

Ithrewitoff，——shelaywithinminearm。

1807-8——

INAWORD。

THUStobechain’dforever，canIbear？

Averytormentthat，intruth，wouldbe。

Thisverydaymynewresolveshallsee——

I’llnotgonearthelately-worshipp’dFair。

Yetwhatexcuse，myheart，canIprepareInsuchacase，fornotconsultingthee？

Butcourage！whileoursorrowsutterweIntoneswherelove，grief，gladnesshaveashare。

Butsee！theminstrel’sbiddingtoobey，Itsmelodypoursforththesoundinglyre，Yearningasacrificeoflovetobring。

Scarcewouldstthouthinkit——readyisthelay。

Well，butwhatthen？MethoughtinthefirstfireWetoherpresenceflew，thatlaytosing。

1807？——

THEMAIDENSPEAKS。

Howgravethouloookest，lovedone！whereforeso？

Thymarbleimageseemsatypeofthee。

Likeit，nosignoflifethougiv’sttome。

Comparedwiththee，thestoneappearstoglow。

Behindhisshieldinambushlurksthefoe，Thefriend’sbrowall-unruffledweshouldsee。

Iseekthee，butthouseek’stawaytoflee。

Fix’dasthissculpturedfigure，learntogrow！

Tellme，towhichshouldIthepreferencepay？

MustIfrombothwithcoldnessmeetalone？

Theoneislifeless，thouwithlifeartblest。

Inshort，nolongertothrowwordsaway，I’llfondykissandkissandkissthisstone，Tillthoudosttearmehencewithenviousbreast。

1807——

GROWTH。

O’ERfieldandplain，inchildhood’sartlessdays，Thousprang’stwithme，onmanyaspring-mornfair。

Forsuchadaughter，withwhatpleasingcare，WouldI，asfather，happydwellingsraise！

Andwhenthouontheworlddidstcastthygaze，Thyjoywastheninhouseholdtoilstoshare。

WhydidItrusther，whyshetrustmee’er？

Forsuchasister，howIHeavenshouldpraise！

Nothingcannowthebeauteousgrowthretard。

Love’sglowingflamewithinmybreastisfann’d。

ShallIembraceherform，mygrieftoend？

TheeasaqueenmustI，alas，regard：

Sohighabovemeplacedthouseem’sttostand。

BeforeapassinglookImeeklybend。

1807？——

FOODINTRAVEL。

IFtohereyes’brightlustreIwereblind，Nolongerwouldtheyservemylifetogild。

Thewillofdestinymustbefulfilid，——

Thisknowing，Iwithdrewwithsadden’dmind。

NofurtherhappinessInowcouldfind：

Theformerlongingsofmyheartwerestill’d。

Isoughtherlooksalone，whereontobuildMyjoyinlife，——allelsewasleftbehind。

Wine’sgenialglow，thefestalbanquetgay，Ease，sleep，andfriends，allwontedpleasuresgladIspurn’d，tilllittlethereremain’dtoprove。

NowcalmlythroughtheworldIwendmyway：

ThatwhichIcravemayeverywherebehad，WithmeIbringtheonethingneedful——love。

1807？——

DEPARTURE。

WITHmanyathousandkissnotyetcontent，AtlengthwithOnekissIwasforcedtogo。

Afterthatbitterparting’sdepthofwoe，Ideem’dtheshorefromwhichmystepsIbent，Itshills，streams，dwellings，mountains，asIwent，Apledgeofjoy，tilldaylightceasedtoglow。

ThenonmysightdidblissfulvisionsgrowInthedim-lighted，distantfirmament，Andwhenatlengththeseaconfinedmygaze，Myardentlongingfill’dmyheartoncemore。

WhatIhadlost，unwillinglyIsought。

ThenHeavenappear’dtosheditskindlyrays：

MethoughtthatallIhadpossess’dofyoreRemain’dstillmine——thatIwasreftofnought。

1807？——

THELOVINGONEWRITES。

THElookthatthysweeteyesonmineimpressThepledgethylipstomineconvey，——thekiss，——

Hewho，likeme，hathknowledgesureofthis，Canheinaughtbesidefindhappiness？

Removedfromthee，friend-sever’d，indistress，ThesethoughtsIvainlystruggletodismiss：

Theystillreturntothatonehourofbliss，Theonlyone。thentearsmygriefconfess。

Butunawaresthetearmakeshastetodry：

Heloves，methinks，e’entothesegladessostill，——

Andshaltnotthoutodistantlandsextend？

Receivethemurmursofhislovingsigh。

Myonlyjoyonearthisinthywill，Thykindlywilltow’rdme。atokensend！

1807？——

THELOVINGONEONCEMORE。

WHYdoIo’ermypaperoncemorebend？

Asknottooclosely，dearestone，IprayFor，tospeaktruth，I’venothingnowtosay。

Yettothyhandsatlength’twillcome，dearfriend。

SinceIcancomenotwithit，whatIsendMyundividedheartshallnowconvey，Withallitsjoys，hopes，pleasures，pains，to-day：

Allthishathnobeginning，hathnoend。

HenceforwardImayne’ertotheeconfideHow，farasthought，wish，fancy，will，canreach，Myfaithfulheartwiththineissurelyblended。

ThusstoodIonceenrapturedbythyside，Gazedonthee，andsaidnought。Whatneedofspeech？

Myverybeinginitselfwasended。

1807？——

SHECANNOTEND。

WHENuntotheeIsentthepageallwhite，Insteadoffirstthereoninscribingaught，Thespacethoudoubtlessfilledstupinsport。

Andsentitme，tomakemyjoygrowbright。

Assoonasthebluecovermetmysight，Aswellbecomesawoman，quickasthoughtItoreitopen，leavinghiddennought，Andreadthewell-knownwordsofpuredelight：

MYONLYBEING！DEARESTHEART！SWEETCHILD！

HowkindlythoumyyearningthendidststillWithgentlewords，enthrallingmetothee。

IntruthmethoughtIreadthywhispersmildWherewiththoulovinglymysouldidstfill，E’entomyselfforayeennoblingme。

1807？——

NEMESIS。

WHENthroughthenationsstalkscontagionwild，Wefromthemcautiouslyshouldstealaway。

E’enIhaveoftwithling’ringanddelayShunn’dmanyaninfluence，nottobedefil’d。

Ande’enthoughAmoroftmyhoursbeguil’d，Atlengthwithhimpreferr’dInottoplay，Andso，too，withthewretchedsonsofclay，Whenfourandthree-linedversestheycompil’d。

Butpunishmentpursuesthescofferstraight，Asifbyserpent-torchoffuriesledFrombilltovale，fromlandtoseatofly。

Ihearthegenie’slaughteratmyfate。

YetdoIfindallpowerofthinkingfledInsonnet-rageandlove’sfierceecstasy。

1807-8——

THECHRISTMAS-BOX。

THISbox，mineownsweetdarling，thouwiltfindWithmanyavariedsweetmeat’sformsupplied。

ThefruitsaretheyofholyChristmastide，Butbakedindeed，forchildren’susedesign’d。

I’dfain，inspeechessweetwithskillcombin’d，Poeticsweetmeatsforthefeastprovide。

Butwhyinsuchfrivolitiesconfide？

Perishthethought，withflatterytoblind！

Onesweetthingthereisstill，thatfromwithin，Withinusspeaks，——thatmaybefeltafar。

Thismaybewaftedo’ertotheealone。

Ifthouarecollectionfondcanstwin，Asifwithpleasuregleam’deachwell-knownstar，Thesmallestgiftthouneverwiltdisown。

1807