To a Young Maiden

by Samuel Francis Smith

As blushing tints still mantle o'er the shell
  Whose tiny owner dwells in it no more;
As fragrant rose-leaves to the traveller tell
  Where nodded in its pride the beauteous flower,—
So may thy path through this fair world be strewn
  With sweet remembrances, to rouse and cheer
The weary wanderer, gladly forced to own
  Where thou hast trod, a joy still lingers there.

September 12, 1872