82
poems.
A grove of cedars grew so thickly round
That it was named The Beautiful Retreat.
The moon shone brightly through the boughs above,
Fair witness of so many vows of love!
That it was named The Beautiful Retreat.
The moon shone brightly through the boughs above,
Fair witness of so many vows of love!
Thus said the youthful Henri: 'Let me here,
Where first I learn'd I to thy heart was dear,
Here let me breath my first, not last, farewell,
That no mistrust may cast its darkling spell;
For here, Theresa, mem'ry pours a light,
The past, the present, and the future, blessing,
That brightens, e'en to me, this last sweet night,
When I may hear thy gentle lips confessing
Thy heart's first love. Oh! peaceful, happy past!
Sweet days of tender union! how they cast
Their deep, full power to bless! I bear away
A joy to light, to consecrate, my stay;
To nerve my arm to gain my heart's sole prize,
A home for thee,—or else thy Henri dies!
Oh! love me still, Theresa; when we part
Let no vain rival steal thy gentle heart.
Remember me, beloved, though I be
Less fair in stature, and less learn'd, than he.
In love alone Du Montville I outshine;
Ah, when we meet shall this fair hand be mine?'
Where first I learn'd I to thy heart was dear,
Here let me breath my first, not last, farewell,
That no mistrust may cast its darkling spell;
For here, Theresa, mem'ry pours a light,
The past, the present, and the future, blessing,
That brightens, e'en to me, this last sweet night,
When I may hear thy gentle lips confessing
Thy heart's first love. Oh! peaceful, happy past!
Sweet days of tender union! how they cast
Their deep, full power to bless! I bear away
A joy to light, to consecrate, my stay;
To nerve my arm to gain my heart's sole prize,
A home for thee,—or else thy Henri dies!
Oh! love me still, Theresa; when we part
Let no vain rival steal thy gentle heart.
Remember me, beloved, though I be
Less fair in stature, and less learn'd, than he.
In love alone Du Montville I outshine;
Ah, when we meet shall this fair hand be mine?'
