VI. STANZAS WRITTEN IN MY POCKET-COPY OF THOMSON'S CASTLE OF INDOLENCE. WITHIN Our happy Castle there dwelt One But go to-morrow or belike to-day Seek for him, he is fled; and whither none can say. Thus often would he leave our peaceful home, Full many a time, upon a stormy night, His voice came to us from the neighbouring height: A mighty wonder bred among our quiet crew. Ah! piteous sight it was to see this Man Down would he sit; and without strength or power Great wonder to our gentle Tribe it was With him there often walked in friendly guise, Yet some did think that he had little business here: Sweet heaven forefend! his was a lawful right; His limbs would toss about him with delight He would have taught you how you might employ And, certes, not in vain; he had inventions rare. Expedients, too, of simplest sort he tried: A Pipe on which the wind would deftly play; The beetle panoplied in gems and gold, The mysteries that cups of flowers enfold, And all the gorgeous sights which fairies do behold. He would entice that other Man to hear His music, and to view his imagery: And, sooth, these two did love each other dear, As far as love in such a place could be ; There did they dwell—from earthly labour free, As happy spirits as were ever seen; If but a bird, to keep them company, Or butterfly sate down, they were, I ween, As pleased as if the same had been a Maiden Queen. VII.. LOUISA. I MET Louisa in the shade; And having seen that lovely Maid, That she is ruddy, fleet, and strong; And she hath smiles to earth unknown; And ever, as they pass away, Are hidden in her eyes. She loves her fire, her Cottage-home; Yet o'er the moorland will she roam In weather rough and bleak; And, when against the wind she strains, Oh! might I kiss the mountain rains That sparkle on her cheek. |