6
O might I with these aged eyes,
But live to see him here,
Then should my soul depart in bliss!—
He said, and dropt a tear.
And is the Percy still so lov’d
Of all his friends and thee?
Then bless me, father, said the youth,
For I, thy guest am he.
Silent he gaz’d, then turn’d aside
To wipe the tears he shed;
And lifting up his hands and eyes,
Pour’d blessings on his head.
Welcome, our dear and much lov’d lord,
Thy country’s hope and care;
But who may this young lady be,
That is so wonderous fair?
Now, father, listen to my tale,
And thou shalt know the truth,
And let thy sage advice direct
My inexperienc'd youth.
In Scotland I’ve been nobly bred
Beneath the Regent’s hand, (1)
In feats of arms and every lore
To fit me for command.
With fond impatience long I burn'd,
My native land to see;
At length I won my guardian friend
To yield that boon to me.
Then up and down in hunter’s garb
I wander’d as in chase,
Till in the noble Neville’s house (2)
I gain’d a hunter’s place.
Some time with him I liv’d unknown
Till I’d the hap so rare,
To please this young and gentle dame,
That baron’s daughter fair.
Now, Percy, said the blushing maid,
The truth I must reveal;
Souls great and generous, like to thine.
Their noble deeds conceal.
It happened on a summer's day,
Led by the fragrant breeze,
I wander’d forth to take the air
Among the green-wood trees.
