FAIRY MINSTREL, OTHER POEMS. THE FAIRY MINSTREL, (D^MI^IE II>(E)IiMI^^ By WILLIAM MILLAR. " jVnd oh ! it is merry in Faii'yland, There's nothing on earth so sweet. As the music, the mirth, tlie soft squeeze of the hand. And the twinkling of Fairies' feet !"— Anonymous. EDINBURGH : PRlNTEIi FOR OLIVER &"tfOYD; AND WAUGH & INNES. 1S22. DUMFRIES: PlllNTED AT THE COURIER OFFICE, By John M'Diarmid, & Co. n 5-/ ^ JOHN MACDIARMID, ESQ. AUTHOR OF " THE LIFB OK WILLIAM COWPEB,"' IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED, AS A SMALL TRIBUTE OF GRATITUDE AND ESTEEM, BY HIS OBLIGED AND HUMBLE SERVANT, THE AUTHOR. CONTENTS. Page. The Fairy MinstreLj,,,^ ^ ,«, 11 To Bertha, ^,.^ 139 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. On the Commencement of the New Year, 163 On Visiting the Ruins of Carlaverock Castle, 169 Top of CrifFel,-. ^..^. 173 On the Death of the Reverend John Dunn,-^ 177 The Sabbath School, .---,. . 180 The Soldier's Funeral, ,.,.^ . 185 Sonnet to Death, „ — »> „„ .^^ >.^ 187 The Infant's Dream,^ „.^,^^^,^,„ ^ ib. The Morn of Spring,. ^ 193 On seeing a Ship sail from harbour on a fine day, 195 Sabbath Morn, „ 198 The Harvest Moon, ^ ^ .....,...,.^. 200 Song of Twilight,^.,. 202 The Storm,>,»^>»»„^«,,^^,>,.v.>>...^,>.>,,v^,„,^ 206 viii CONTENTS. Page. The Vision, 210 The Execution, 212 The Orphan, 217 The Withered Tree, --. 220 THE ^Mv^ gSlim^txl* FAIRY MINSTREL. JL IS Summer — Flora's richest boon Awakes the warbler's sweetest song. And on the rosy lips of June The sighing zephyrs linger long. 'Tis evening — but the western sky Hath yet a flush of crimson dye ; And may be seen, on distant hill, A golden sunbeam resting still, As if to scare dull night away Till finish'd is the shepherd's lay. Or watch the mazy flight of Love From tree to tree — from grove to grove. Ere Twilight come, with friendship due. To veil him in her robes of blue : 12 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And, 'neath the sky of purple light. How lovely is the earth to sight ! It soothes the heart, it charms the soul. It breathes delight from pole to pole. The landscape opens to the eye A scene of rich embroidery. Where daisied lea, and silvery lake. Blue mountain, many-coloured brake. Rose-garden, rainbow plain, are seen (All shaded with refreshing green) To carpet Nature's wide saloon — Domed with the splendid skies of June. And now, while far o'er hill and dale. Bright Sol his race of glory closes. The balmy dews of evening fall On flowery fields, and beds of roses. Still wafting odours from their bloom That load the land with sweet perfume : While 'mid the deep dark blue of heaven Is seen the herald-star of even. Fast hastening through the twilight sky To catch a waft of Beauty's sigh. And witness bear in heaven above Unto a thousand vows of love. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. It is a charming eve ! — the earth Is fill'd with loveliness and mirth. And 'neath the smile of closing day Seem happy all — for all are gay. The blithesome hind hath loosed his teem, Who long had chid the lingering beam. That ne'er could cheer his heart, the while He gazed not on his Jessie's smile ; But now, relieved from toil and care, He hastes to meet the beauteous fair ; And hark ! as wending fast along. He hums his weighty, warlike song. Which, though essayed with rustic skill. Has something of attraction still : The merry milkmaid tunes a lay. As soft and sweet as fabled fay That wakes the lyre in Fairyland To charm an elvish saraband.; But list ! some night-sound meets her car ! She pauses — deems her William neai* ; Then, half afraid, resumes again Her simple, wildly- warbled strain, With fluttering heart and lightsome air— Oh ! what a glow of bliss is there ! 14 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And, flowing deep, from glen and grove A stream of music rolls along, That laves around, and waves above. And gladdens all the earth with song : On flowery thorn and bending spray The linnet trills her cheering lay. While high o'er all the feather'd train Sublimely sounds the merle's strain. That meets, as in the air it floats, A thousand tributary notes. Then moves in ether, wide and free, A waving flood of minstrelsy ! But dearest far, lone Philomel, Among the music of the vale. Is heard thy mellow lay. So sweetly sad — so sadly sweet — With joy or sorrow so replete. That he who lists its gentle flow Must pause, and think awhile, to know Or if 'tis joy — or if 'tis woe. That claims the doubtful sway : And all above — beneath — around. The sky— the earth— the sight and sound. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 15 Give eye and soul, without alloy. Such foretaste of supernal joy, The wondering spirit well may deem '■ i\ That all is but a heavenly dream. Unmeet to tarry long, Of some far fairyland of bliss. Adorned with peace, and happiness, /. And life, and love, and song ! /. Oh ! that the heart would ever beat With joys as innocent and sweet. As those that in the bosom dwell When bound in Evening's soothing spell And would the scene might ever last. Whereon the eye, still unoppress'd With weariness or woe. Could gaze for aye, with fond delight. Nor toils nor cares of day or night E'er mar the pleasing bliss, or blight Our happiness below ! But in the cup to mankind given, Howe'er its sweetness taste of heaven. There ever is a something ill To prove that men are mortal still. B 2 a 16 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. What though the beauteous earth and sky Have fiU'd my gladden'd soul vrith bliss. And all around, the sated eye Can only look on loveliness — Have I not seen a scene as gay Smile — ^cheer my heart — then pass away. And leave me, with reflecting brow. As tliis already leaves me now ? — Hark ! there the drowsy beetle comes. With lazy buzz, and deadening drone. To warn the warblers to their homes. And tell the hour of mirth is donecfidt s^diiiJ'S^ The beam that gilded yonder hill Is gone — and darkness deepens still ; The shepherd's dulcet notes are o'er. The milkmaid's song is heard no more ; And see, the deep dull gloom of night Creeps slowly o'er each mountain's height. While Darkness shrouds beneath her sway The splendid garniture of Day ; The songsters of the fragrant grove. Whose music fill'd the soul with love. Have dropt to silence, one by one. Till every gladdening note is gone. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 17 And now, beneath Night's murky pall, 'Tis stillness deep, and darkness all, Save where is heard, in yonder vale. The whisperings of the dreaming gale ; And save that on the brow of Night (Like ashes of extinguish'd light) There is that melancholy hue The gazer's startled eye will view. Who lifts the snowy covering spread Upon the un corrupted dead ! Alas .' how soon the scene is gone So beautiful to gaze upon ! How soon is still'd that warbling throng. Whose vast machinery of song Breathed only love and mirth ! No welcome strain salutes the ear. No groves of gaudy flowers appear. But stript of all her boasted cheer Seems now the lonely earth. Ah ! thus awhile the happy heart. When free from care, and sorrow's smart. Will gaily sport the sunny hour. Forgetting that a cloud may lower And sunlight cease to glow ; 18 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. But soon the shades of night draw on. The sun of Joy sinks down anon. And leaves the flouted heart alone In darkness and in woe ! But away with sorrow ! — it is not good To dwell on the notes of woe so long ; 'Tis better to live in a lightsome mood. And gladden the heart with a cheerful song. " Come, gentle Meditation ! thou To me art doubly welcome now. For often has thy healing art Removed that heaviness of heart That follows bliss gone by ; With thee I can enjoy again The golden sky — the flowery plain. And hear the vivifying strain Of music floating nigh. 'Tis night ! — but thy creative power Can well supply a blooming bower, O'ercanopied with that lovely light, Wliich the going of day, and the coming of night. Scatters the sky along. And wake on the ear that pleasing lay Which charms the soul, when at closing day THE FAIRY MINSTREL. IQ The feathery tenants of bush and spray Pour forth their happiest song : Then bind me in thy magic spell. And paint me the scenes I love so well. For the charms of Nature can soothe my soul. When Sorrow asserts her dark controul ; And oh ! my spirit is fond of thee. So come, my beloved ! and dwell with me." " Alas ! my child, think not to find " The all thy heart would wish below ; " For never shall through mortal's mind " Unbroken streams of pleasure flow. " 'Tis good to smile when joy is nigh, " And prize the hour that soon steals by ; " But 'tis better to learn a lesson of sorrow — ** If it be not to-day, it will come to-morrow, " And leave not to seek the sword and the shield *' Till is seen the enemy pacing the field ; " For the hardy peasant better can bear " The chilling sweep of the mountain air, " Than the joy-sick lady, in peevish ease, " Who shrinks from the gentle summer breeze. 20 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. *' 'Tis good to laugh when the heart is gay, *' And while the hours with delight away j " But better by far, to be wise and know " That nothing is lasting here below ; " For saddening thoughts to bliss will guide, " When virtue has sprung from humbled pride. *' Though beauty may please, and mirth delight, " When the cheek of health is ruddy and bright, " Yet the soul of idle mirth and madness " Must soon exchange its joy for sadness, " When, flaring wildly o'er all beneath, *' The sword of Fate gleams forth from its sheath, *' Heavy with sickness, and big with death ! — " Then woe to the bosom whose fleeting mirth ** Was only found in the things of earth, " And woe to the spirit that may not bloom ^' In a land of life beyond the tomb ! " Then seek not thou false peace to know, " Nor set thy heart on this world of woe ; " For its transient pleasures shall all decay " Like the golden tints of the closing day, " Or a blessed dream from the dreamer's mind, " Tliat leaves not a trace of its sweets behind : THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 21 *' But rather go muse o'er the sick man's bed, " Or turn thy thoughts to the silent dead, " There knowledge learn, and wisdom cull " From a mouldering bone, or a brainless skull ; " For there most surely shalt thou see " What soon thine own sad fate must be, " And, like a bird that knows her time, " And hastens from the coming blast, " Thy soul shall seek a happier clime " Before the day of hope is past ; " And while thy mind is thus employed, • " My wisdom shall thy counsel be ; *' But the heart with airy lightness buoy'd " Can never be loved nor ruled by me 1"^ " Alas ! in all thy boundless store. Is this the only page of lore. Dull Meditation ! thou Hast found to cheer thy votary's breast. Who came to thee with cares oppress'd ? — Ah ! thou hast often made me blest. But hast not bless'd me now ! And yet, my bosom must approve The friendly counsels of thy love, Howe'er they cause it pain ; 22 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. So much of truth I find in thee. So much deceit in life I see, I well each earth-born thought might flee. To follow in thy train." But away with sorrow ! — it is not good To hang the harp on a weeping willow. Or sink beneath the foaming flood. While a plank is floating on its billow. " Sweet Fancy ! may I come to thee. Though last, yet not the least to me. Whom often, in the hour of pain, I've sought and never sought in vain : Do thou but raise thy magic wand. And all the charms of Fairyland Will burst upon the ravish'd eye. As fair as bright reality ! — " Oh ! 'neath thy soft and soothing power, I've linger'd many a happy hour. Inviting thy transmuting skill To please a thousand flights of will. And picture scenes to glad the eye That charm'd even when the spell was by ; THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 23 With thee, sweet Fancy ! I have trod The kingly hall, a monarch crown'd. Proud menials crouching to my nod. And starry nobles glittering round ; While, with a nation's lavish'd treasure, I revel'd on the lap of Pleasure, With every blessing at command The joys of sense could well demand : — And — but for that strange, meddling fear. That ever gave my bosom woe. Still whispering in the conscious ear, ' There is no lasting joy below ;' And — but for that convincing sigh Breathed from the very lips of bliss. That spoke of weak mortality In every hour of happiness — I then had prized the pleasures given. Too much, to seek a happier heaven. Nor cared that kingdom to obtain Where lieges with their princes reign. " And with thee, mistress of my mind ! Forever welccane, good, and kind, I've roam'd afar in Fairyland, Where all were happy, gay, and grand ; 24 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And where, 'mid blooming earth and skies,^ Fair beings, born in paradise. Rejoiced among their beauteous bowers Of fragrant, never-fading flowers. Without a care that mortals know, Without one sigh of human woe, Unstain'd by sin — unruled by law, Uncheck'd by fear — unswayed by awe. To whom were love and beauty given With all the witcheries of heaven ; Wliile songs of mirth, and hymns of joy. Were undulating through a sky Of pure and odoriferous air — All seen and heard so sweet and fair, The eye that saw ne'er turn'd away. The ear that heard would list for aye ! " Then come, dear Fancy, to my heart. And all thy heaven of bliss impart ; Oft hast thou soothed an hour of pain. Then hasten and come to this bosom again. To gladden my soul with thy visions bright. In the silent and lonely watch of night ; For oh ! my spirit is fond of thee. So come, my beloved ! and dwell with me. " THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 25 " Come up with me — and out on care ! " Nor in that vale of tears repine ; " I ne'er reject the pilgrim's prayer, " Who comes to worship at my shrine. " 'Tis I who am the constant foe '' Of every sorrow that niortals know ; " The light-wing'd sylph that bears along " The heavy heart to a land of song, " When grief besets the joyless breast, " To sing its miseries all to rest : " The noble and ignoble mind " Alike with me will happiness find ; " For Fancy is unfetter'd and free " As the wmds that waft o'er land and sea, " And kiss alike the royal dome, " And the humble peasant's rustic home : '' ' Tis I that can break the captive's chain, " And freedom give to the slave again ; " For when my magic veil is spread " Softly and lightly over his head, " He heeds not the dungeon's hated gloom, " But dreams of his native lands in bloom, *' Where he roams o'er hill and daisied lea, " With his bosom as blest, and his feet as free. 26 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. " As he wont in the days that are far away, " When his heart was light, and his song was gay. " 'Tis I that can cheer the lonely night '' With dreams of love, and visions bright, " And spread before the sleeper's eye " A paradise of life and joy; ''While, on Imagination's wings, '' He soars above all earthly things, " Forgetting the cares, and hopes, and fears, " Spread o'er his path in the vale of tears, '• And lives and moves in a world of bliss, " In the highest of heavenly happiness. " Then whither with thee shall I bend my flight, " In what fair clime wouldst thou love to dwell ? " For regions of pleasure, and worlds of light, " Are subject all to my powerful spell !" " Oh ! since thou hast not said me nay In asking favour at thy hand. Sweet Fancy ! bear me far away To our own blessed Fairyland ; Where oft with thee I've ^ent the night Amid celestial visions bright. And breathed the fragrant incense air That wafted naught but beauty there, THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 27 And heard those notes of joy and mirth. That left mc not, when back to earth At dawning morn my spirit fell. And bade that lovely land farewell. " Even now, methinks, I hear again The sound of that all-charming strain. So soothing far — so melting near — That fell upon my ravish'd ear. In notes that mortals deem will be The music of eternity ! Even now, methinks, I can behold That shining sky of burnish'd gold ; Those balmy groves — those blooming bowers ; That earth of never-fading flowers ; Those beings pure — serenely bright. Created only for delight ; That bless'd my ear and eye, the while I sojourn'd in thy fairy isle. " Oh ! now thy wings of light expand. And bear me to that happy land — That clime of piire delight, where fain My longing soul would be again !" 28 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. " Come up with me !" the goddess said. — Away on pinions bright we flew. O'er hill and dale— o'er grove and mead — Through mists of balm, and clouds of dew ; Away ! away ! on wings of wind. As light as air — as swift as mind ! While earth and ocean — plain and height. Went backwards — backwards from the sight ; And now, before our dazzled view. As through the endless space we flew. The sun arose with splendid glow. But there was seen no world below ; He flash'd around us fire and day — Diminish' d — waned — and waned away. Till disk and centre left our view Far in the boundless waste of blue : So swift — so rapid was our flight, 'Twas night and day — and day and night. Ere Echo might the accent tell That bade the distant earth farewell ! Up, up we clomb the endless sky ; The flickering stars went twinkling by, (The bright — the dim — the great — the small) Like foam-bells o'er a waterfall ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 29 Up, up we flew, with soaring will, And higher still — and higher stiil ; No fears had we our flight to stay. No barrier marr'd our trackless way. Till, as it seem'd, with might and mind We left a universe behind ! Then open'd on the wondei'ing sight A massy gate of sparkling light Through which the ravish'd eye Beheld, beneath a sky of gold, A beauteous world of bliss untold, In grand perspective lie. But here, the gates that marr'd our flighl At this incalculable height. Were shut — and I began to bear A pressing thought of secret fear. And felt as if I could forego The promised bliss, for bygone woe^ So were I suffered to retrace The vast immensity of space. To find my foot a resting place : — Yet well I knew my wish was vain To tread the distant earth again j 30 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. For had I sunk in backward flight, Adown that maze of day and night. Through which on Fancy's wings I came. My fears had still remain'd the same ; And I had yet been sinking there, A pilgrim of the vacant air. And lived my three- score years and ten. Before I press'd the earth again ! But soon I felt my fears subside. When lo ! a fair celestial band. At Fancy's call, threw open wide The golden gates of Fairyland. — We entered — but who may declare The glorious scene that open'd there. When gathering legions throng'd around. With gems and rosy garlands crown'd, To welcome in among the blest. Their bowing, smiling stranger guest. And think ye how I look'd and felt. When these seraphic beings knelt. And loud proclaim'd, with waving hand, "Hail, Fancy! Queen of Fairyltrnd !" THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 31 I started back — the royal Dame Again replaced ine by her side ; — I felt my flushing face on flame. And strove in vain surprise to hide. But bashfulness soon bade adieu. When round my glowing frame she threw A costly robe of emerald green. Spangled with gems of starry sheen. And with sweet incense perfumed o'er — 'Twas such the fairy sisters wore ! And rustic fear, that whilom reign'd. No more my wondering bosom pain'd. For now my hand the Genii took. With love and kindness in each look. At their exalted Queen's command. To welcome me to Fairyland ! They led me on — we skipt away. All lightly in our gay costume. Through endless realms of shining day. O'er fields of everlasting bloom ; The gaudy flowers on hill and mead Bent not beneath our wingy tread, c 2 S2 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. As on we moved, 'mid fragrance sweet. O'er mountain, plain, and grove, as fleet As Eagle wings o'er brake and bent Through his aerial firmament : We tired not — tari'ied not — till where Arose a proud pavilion fair, (With only Flora's treasures built. With only goodly blossoms gilt,) Whose lofty dome embraced the skies — . 'Twas Fancy's Bower of Paradise. Our Empress enter'd — at her call, FoUow'd the airy legions all ; Where soon, obedient to her sway. Well ranged in regular array. The fairy host, with joy elate. Upon a lily sofa sate. That circled round the hall of state. And oh ! it was a splendid sight To see the little cherubs bright. Smiling around that flowery grove. With looks of heavenly joy and love. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 33 And mark, pervading o'ei* the whole. That high hilarity of soul. That sparkled in a thousand eyes In Fancy's Bower of Paradise. It was a lovely Bower, I ween. As e'er by dreamer's eye was seen In visions of the night. For hall, and window — wall and dome, Show'd but one universal bloom Of beauty and of light : — A rainbow arch'd the portal wide. Resting on earth at either side ; While, far behind, the concave high Stretch'd out a glowing lily sky, Bespotted o'er with roses red. That round the Bower a radiance shed. Like crimson-lighted stars besprent Upon a milky firmament ; And had there been no pleasing ray Shed from the outer sky of day. The brightness of the sunny eyes. That twinkled round in winning guise — 34 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. The glowing cheeks, of rosy hue. That flush'd before the gazer's view — The streamer-ringlets, curling low O'er heaving breasts of heaven's snow — And, too, the brilliant lustre seen Shed from their star-set robes of green. With all around so bright and fair — Had been enough of splendour there ! I gazed upon the charming sight, Absorb'd in exquisite delight. Forgetting how, or where, or when. The dream of dreams came o'er my brain. And lost to all save bliss. — But soon. Awakening from the passing swoon, I well could mark, in every breast, A secret wonderment express'd. When She who held the sway Rose from her throne, and thus began. While through the Bower soft music ran. Sweet as when harp of JEoVian Sings in the breeze of May : — THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 35 " I WENT down to the earth, Where the gay flowers were blowing. And the sunshine of mirth In each bosom was glowing ; The warblers were singing On bush and on tree. And the valleys were ringing With sweet melody. " The lake and the fountain. Slept silent and calm ; The breeze on the mountain Was laden with balm ; While the sweetness of even. To soul and to sight. Made earth like a heaven Of purest delight. " But think ye how quickly Man's happiness there. Is exchanged for the sickly Reflections of care ; The joys that replenish The bliss of his dream. They come, and they vanish. Like foam on the stream ! 36 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. " The sun set in glory — Soon faded his light ; The mountains grew hoary. In the shadows of night ; The birds of the vale From their tasks were released, And the sweet nightingale Sang long — but she ceased. " The night dews fell chill, 'Mid the darkness beneath ; And life grew as still As the stillness of death ; While the beauties of day. That enliven'd the scene. Were away — and away As they had never had been J " I turn'd me, from time. And the earth, and the night. To haste to our clime Of unfading delight : But hark ! as I soar'd From the regions of care. My help was implored By a suppliant's prayer. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 37 " The joys that are raised By my magical wand. And the beauties, so praised. Of our dear Faii-yland, He ask'd me to show him — He ask'd with a sigh ; I hearken'd unto him. And could not deny. " So I've enter'd the portal. Where grief cannot come, And wing'd this sad mortal Far, far from his home ; To his breast we'll impart What his tongue cannot tell. And gladden his heart With the bliss of our spell. " Then rest not your lilies And roses among ; Come forth to the Palace, Thou Prince of my Song ! For thou hast the merit Of charming alway, Or mortal, or spirit. With the spell of thy lay. S8 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. " And music, I know^ Is the joy and the love Of beings below, And of beings above; So rest not your lilies And roses among, Come forth to the Palace, Thou Prince of my Song !" She said — and by the listening throng. Applause through all the Bower was rung ; While, fair as light, her Prince of Song, With harp upon his shoulders hung. Came forth before the royal Queen, Rustling in silky robes of green. And girded with a sparkling zone That like a belt of sunbeams shone.— He bowed with graceful minstrel pride. Then seated him by Fancy's side. In sooth a dwarfish thing was he. Yet boasting graceful symmetry, With smile so sweet, and look so fair, The whole of Beauty's self was there ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 39 His golden ringlets, waving bright. Shone with a self-existing light ; His brow — of Lilliputian kin — Bespoke a noble soul within ; His glowing cheeks, with gladness graced, Seem'd rose-leaves on a lily placed ; His pouting lips, to nature ti*ue, Rival'd the cherry's richest hue ; While all his witching prettiness. Was mix'd with such a winning grace Of archest mirth, and purest joy — In sooth he was a lovely boy ! His harp — was not of silver mould. Nor strung with flimsy wires of gold ; Its rim was pilfer'd from the moon When shining in her brightest noon ; Its chords — else they deceived the eye — Were sunbeams of a summer sky ! He raised it in his snow-white hand. Then smiled, and bow'd to Fairyland ; While heaven and earth celestial rung. As thus the Fairy Minstrel sung : — 40 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. €ijt Mittijijt o£ tijc (EJirsiii ^jTai). Last night on a silvery cloud I sate. That swung in the high^ high heaven. When the sun had half his boundless state To the meek blue Twilight given. I look'd far down on the world below. That smiled in the closing day ; Flush'd were the fields with a rosy glow. And heaven and earth were gay. The hamlet's mirth rang through the sky, Unmix'd with a note of sadness ; While the balmy breeze that wandered bye Was rich with the song of gladness. And all were so fair, so sweet, and gay. In the evening's purple glow. That blame me not if I wished away To the charminij: land below. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 4l I hied me down to the nether earth. And perch'd on a towering tree, To listen the notes of Love and Mirth, In the Grove of Melody e. And oh ! how soft was Love's warm sigli. Deep breathed in that flowery vale ! A nd oh ! how sweet was the music high. Upborne on the spicy gale ! I gazed on the scene of joy and peace. Displayed in the balmy grove. Till I envied the glory of mortal bliss, And the sweetness of human love. 'Twas then I bethought me of Virgin Fay— My own young Fay in the skies ; And I sigh'd to think she Avas far away,. In the Bower of Paradise. But long in the land of new delight It chanced that I might not be. Till I heard the voice of a sister sprite, 'Mong the boughs of a sycamore ti'ea 42 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. I flew, and I flew to her fair retreat. Where, trilling a lightsome lay. Say whom did the love- sick Fairy meet. But his own young Virgin Fay ! " My bliss rest on thee, sister Fay ! My love is at thy command ; But how hast thou come so far away From the Bowers of Fairyland? " Ah ! much I fear some lover new Has stolen thy heart from thee. And thy gentle bosom, once so true. Now sighs no more for me !" " Sweet peace be with thee, brother Fay ! But, alas ! you judge me ill. To think that a faithless thought can stay In a heart that loves thee still." " Then come to my arms, my faithful bride. We'll speed to Hymen's shrine ; And oh ! how sweetly the hours will glide. When thy heart and hand are mine !" THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 43 " Now long hast thou loved me, brother Fay, But to make thy kindness known, Fulfil me one request, I pray. And my heart is all thine ownJ' " Then tell me thy wish, my sister dear. And I vow by thy starry eyes. If I grant it not — no more I'll appear In the Bower of Paradise !" ** Thy faith is pledged — so take this kiss, The last I'll give to thee. Till the fsir-hair'd Queen of Human Bliss My Fairy brings to me !" Oh ! Love can nerve the puny arm. And urge the soul to dare ; Fy, fy ! on the knight not brave in harm. To won his peerless fair I I gat me in garb of Errant clad. And, braced in the stern array. Away on a palfrey light I rode — The Knight of the Virgin Fay ! 44 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. In sooth I knew not much of strife. To gird on a sword and belt; And less of the ways of hmnan life. To know where the Bliss-Queen dwelt. But away I rode on my charger good. So lightly, o'er land and sea ; Away, through city and solitude. Where'er might the Goddess be. I rode till I came to the House of Mirth, Where Youth and Beauty fair. Awhile to forget the woes of earth. Were dancing adieu to Care. The music was sweet, and the song was gay. That filled the sounding hall ; And the look of love was seen alway, In the midst of the flouncing ball. I fear'd not or porter or guest to chafe. By endmg the dance or the song ; — One leap of my palfrey placed me safe In the midst of the reeling throng. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 45 But lo ! what a fearful change took place. As I spake to the dancers gay : " I come for the Queen of Human Bliss — The Knight of the Virgin Fay !" The music ceased, and the noisy room Grew still as the place of death. While the tapers threw a dreary gloom On the trembling throng beneath ! And much I mourn'd the woeful plight Of youth and maiden dear. As they lowly whisper'd — " Alas ! Sir Knight, The fair Queen dwells not here !" Then away I rode on my steed so slim. Leaving lover and damsel fair. To learn from me, as I learnt from them. That the Goddess dwelt not there. I rode, till afar on an upland spot I beheld a flying throng, Wing'd on by Hope — and they saw me not. As they hurried fast along. 46 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. I spurred my steed — theugh far behind. And fast the journeyers sped, I gained — before the fleeting wind — The bounding cavalcade 1 " So ho ! good friends !— your hearts seem light, As your footstep's airy pace ; And whom do ye seek ?" — " Good stranger Knight, The Queen of Human Bliss !" " Brave speed, my comrades ! — mighty well ! And pray, is she far before ?" — " You see her. Sir Knight, on yonder hill. On her throne of golden ore !" Now light of heart— in joyful mood, I sped to the wish'd-for sight. And left the motley multitude To follow as best they might. How sweet to think — one moment away. At the Queen's bright throne I would be ; The next, in the arms of my Virgin Fay, In the Grove of Mclodyc I THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 4? One moment passed — but another came, To pass with a third — and still The weary distance appear'd the same, To the top of the magic hill ! For ever as on I flew like the wind, " I was left in the vale below. Like a baffled school-boy hasting to find The base of a briglit rainbow ! But still I had faith in my charger good. And I prick'd with the spur of Hope ; — One desperate bound, and now we stood On the dizzying mountain's top ; Where a thousand vot^ies, bending low To their Empress, met the view. Whose throne of clouds the sunny glow Had changed to a golden hue. Arrayed in the pompous robes of Pride, i- ' They sang in a joyful strain:— " What earthly woe shall e'er betide High Fortune's heavenly train !'* D 2 fti THE FAIRY MINSTREL; Then, drawing ray trusty sword, in case I had met with opposing sway : " I come for the Queen of Human Bliss— The Knight of the Virgin Fay !" But strange ! the sun that shone so fair Grew dim, and their goddess fled ; While down fell her lofty tower of air. On the dying, and the dead ! And well I may thank my palfrey's skill. Who swift from the havoc hurried. That I slept not there, on Fortune's Hill, In the smothering ruins buried ! Away I rode on ray steed so fleet, Away, o'er land and sea — The conquering Knight of the Virgin sweet. In the Grove of Melodye. I rode till I came to a mansion fair. That seem'd the abode of pleasure ; And a wealthy old Miser was seated there, A-counting his hoarded treasure. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 49 And ay he was chanting a cheerful song. With joy on his aged brow : — *' Dear Queen of Bliss, I have sought thee long. And lo ! I have found thee now !" I staid not to hear the hinges jar. Nor the locks of the portal grate ; One bound of my steed — through bolt and bar. Brought me close where the Miser sate : " Now change not thus thy lying face. Nor dare to say me nay. But yield thee the Queen of Human Bliss, To the Knight of the Virgin Fay I" His hair stood up like the furzy heath. And I smiled when I heard him cry — ^' Ah, mercy ! and spai-e me, good King Death ! Till I'm better prepared to die I" Away I rode — but I truly wot, I learned the old Miser this — That the hoarded heap of gold is not The Queen of Human Bliss. ■50 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. I rode till I came to a lordly hall. Where the princely feast was spread ; And many a guest to the festival. Brave Bacchus now had led. Aloof on the nectar's cloud of balm Was borne each happy soul ; And they quaffed the wine, till their senses swam On the foam of the sparkling bowl ! And the toast went round — " At last we have found Where a mortal blest may be ; Oh i where is a place for the Queen of Bliss, Like the Hall of Revelry ?" I sought not or groom or baron's pass ;— One leap of my palfrey good. And, safe through the casement's jingling glass. On the well-spread board I stood. Then waving my sword on high a space. To keep the bold lords at bay : — " I come for the Queen of Human Bliss, The Knight of the Virgin Fay !" THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 51 But pale as the dead grew guest and host ; The ladies a short prayer mtitter'd ; While the giddy song, and the mumbled toast, On their white lips died half-utter'd ! Amazed at the change — I look'd about — What a humbling sight to see Each mortal prostrate — stammering out, " Sir Knight, she is not with me !" Now far had I sought foi' the prize unwon ; At last I began to fear. That the Queen of Bliss from the earth had gone. To dwell in a loftier sphere. But onward I press'd to fulfil my vow ; And fleet o'er the mazy way. As shaft from the twanging bow, I trow. Went the Knight of the Virgin Fay ! I rode till I came to the Tower of Fame, Where Honour and Wealth were met ; And a gallant throng, of noble name. With the laurelled chieftains sate. $2 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And ever and ay their hearts danced on To the world's applauding glee. As they told of the mighty deeds they had done. And their feats of chivalry. I heard afar their boasting theme, *' Oh ! where is a home like this } — What place so meet as the Tower of Fame For the Queen of Human Bliss }" And much I joyed to hear their mirth. As it echoed far and near ; For I thought if the Goddess dwelt on earth, I was sure to find her here. I staid not to proffer a warden boon, I heeded not rampart strong ; — One bound of my charger placed me soon In the midst of the warlike tlirong. That moment a thousand falchions bright. From their sheaths came glittering forth, 'Mid a thousand voices of — " Ho ! Sir Knight ! Why shorteu our hour of mirth.''" THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 5« " Fulfil my demand, 'tis an hour of peace ; 'Tis war if you baulk my sway : I come for the Queen of Human Bliss — The Knight of the Virgin Fay !" Sunk hand and brand that to fight were ready. And trembled the heroes all. As quakes weak maid, when her moonlight shadow She fancies a spectre tall ! And 'stead of their yielding the Goddess briglit. Each cried with a look of fear, " Gramercy I — depart, good Fairy Knight !— She is any where but here !" Then sooth there was something in my brain That savour'd of sorrow's smart ; And I felt a sigh of mortal pain Rise heavy from my heart ! But thinking again of my Virgin bright. Of love, and the plighted vow, Soon Hope, with a glow of cheering light. Shone o'er ray moody brow. 5* THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And away I rode on my steed so fleet, Away, o'er land and sea. The conquering Knight of the Virgin sweet, In the Grove of Melodye. I rode till I came to a lonely cave, Where, robed in humble guise. There dwelt an old Hermit, who- seera'd to have Communion with the skies. The trace on his aged brow was seen Of many a wintry blast ; Yet his eye was tlie evening's calm serene. When the stormy day is past. " Good Hermit, thine be the home of peace ! Can you guide me on my way ? I seek for the Queen of Human Bliss — The Knight of the Virgin Fay !" He smiled, as he spoke with courteous tone, And a lightsome, winning air : — " And pray. Sir Knight, have you travelled long. In search of the heavenly fair }" THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 55 " Old Sire ! I have roam'd both far and near. And my vow is seal'd in the skies— If I find her not^ no more I'll appear In the Bower of Paradise I" He took me in to his lone abode. And mysteries 'gan unfold ; And many a marvellous scene he sliow'd,. And wondrous tale he told. Then opening a book. Sire Hermit said, " Here find the desire of thy soul ; — They never .can miss their aim who read In the Book of the Mystic Scroll!" I look'd on the Hermit's mystic tome. But what might the reading be ? — " Queen Bliss is Virtue — lo ! her home Is the Grove of Melodye !" I bless'd the old Sage for his friendly love ; — I spurr'd my steed, and away. O'er ocean and land, to the distant grove Where I left my Virgin Fay. S6 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. The hills were high, and the seas were deep, And the sun in the darkening sky- Was hastening fast to his place of sleep, Though wearied less than I. But I clomb the hill, and I skipt o'er the plain, I splash'd through the draggling sea. Till I stood 'mid the fair retreats again. Of the Grove of Melodye. I sought for the Virgin — but she was gone. And had written on a rose-leaf this : — " My Fairy will find me in Virtue's home With the Queen of Human Bliss." So I rode till I came to a flowery glade, (In the midst of the Grove it lay,) But a lovelier scene was ne'er displayed To the Knight of the Virgin Fay. For there, in the grandeur of holy state. The Temple of Virtue stood. Where the Loves and the Graces all were met. And the wise of earth, and the good. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 57 The Queen of Bliss there ruled supreme;, And bore unrivall'd away ; Whose eyes all pure and bright did beam. As the star of opening day. The cup of joy, unmix'd with care. To all her guests was given ; And the sons of men seem'd angels there. For they walk'd in the light of heaven f While, hark ! through all their home of peace What thrilling music rang ! As thus the heaven-born Queen of Bliss To her holy legions sang : — C|)c J'ong or Virtue. My name is Virtue — I alone Am Queen of Human Bliss below. As all my faithful followers own. And well from sweet experience know ; E 58 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. For I can heal the suffering breast. And soothe the heart with sorrow riven. And give the sons of Care, unblest. To taste the high delights of heaven : Oh ! ye that fain would happy be, Why blindly wander far from me ? What are the paltry joys of earth, That worldly men so fast pursue ? — They have their beauty, love, and mirth. And wealth, and fame, and honour, too ; But what are these ? — and whence their worth. To those who hear not Virtue's call ? — Alas ! alas ! they spring from earth. And earth at length devours them all ; While o'er their bright but transient home The waves of dark Oblivion come ! But see ! the wicked prosper ! — Well, 'Tis meet they should awhile be gay ; Their phantom'd bliss — delusion's spell — Remains but for a little day : And let them rear their proud abodes. And couch like lions in their den. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 59 Or vainly plume themselves like gods. Yet they shall die — and die like men ; And woe is me ! and woe is me ! For who will then their surety be I Ah ! Youth must fade in Age's storms. And Mirth to pale Disease give way ; And Beauty — it shall feed the worms That riot o'er its perish'd clay ! Yea, Love shall die, and Friendship fail. And Fame forget to court and fawn ; And Riches, what will ihey avail. When Death's unerring sword is drawn ? Alas ! ihat king no boon will take. No armistice with sinners make. What though their joys may seem divine. Who madly scoff at truth and me ; What though their meteor hopes may shine Like sunlight rising o'er the sea: Yet they the fruits of sin shall reap. And quail in Judgment's trying day. When wrath-floods from on high shall sweep Their refuges of lies away !' 60 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And who that owns not my command. Shall in that day of vengeance stand ? But other days, and other doom. My pure and happy children know ; For ever round their peaceful home The streams of life and pleasure flow : And there they wash from each alloy That wrecks the hope of human pride ; And banquet on perpetual joy. Unknown to all the world beside ; While Love and Hope, with glorious ray. Shine round their dwelling-place for aye ! So hold ye on your heavenly way — Ye who have found my blissful shore ; For croWns of life, in endless day. Are yours — and yours for evermore : Yea, ye shall live beyond the sky. In joys surpassing mortal ken. When kingdoms fall, and nations high Have perish'd from the place of men : For this tlie great reward must be Of all that arc baptized to mc ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 6l I lighted from off my weary steed. Exchanging the mail and the brand. For the emerald robe, and the rosy braid, Of the fays of Fairyland. And loudly I tirl'd at the Temple-gate, Like a champion bold and brave ; Till Truth drew near, in his robes of state. And a welcome entrance gave. Then I flew to Virtue's kind embrace. Right joyful to hear her say :— '* Thrice welcome in to our home of peace. Sir Knight of the Virgin Fay I " You have sought me long, both far and near. In the circles of sin and woe ; But the love, and the joy, and the peace, are here. Which the world can ne'er bestow. " So come, pretty Fay, to your faithful Knight," The meek-eyed Empress cried : When lo ! at her call, the Virgin bright Blush'd fair by her fairy's side ! •62 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. My elfin's ruby lips I kiss'd. In a rapture of fond surprise ; While love leapt high in her heaving breast. And flash'd from her sunny eyes. Then gladly to Hymen's hall of bliss We sped, with the Queen divine. To drink of the stream of happiness. That flowed around his shrine. There was mirth and song on every side, A s we tript o'er the flowery way ; But wlio were so blest as the Fairy Bride, And the Knight of the Virgin Fay ? He still'd his harp, and ceased his song : But Silence strove with Echo long. To hush the lengthen'd strain ; Nor might the eye perceive retire The hand that touch'd the sweet-toned wire, So long the music of his lyre Rung in the dancing brain. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 63 Boots It imweening wight to teach, That sweeter sounds than human speech Flow from an elfin's tongue ? — Ah ! did but see the Fairy Bard, His tale reduced to human word. He'd deem the dull translator heard But little of his song : Or boots to tell of freakish smile, And look that spoke to look, the while Sir Fairy told with winning glee. His wondrous deeds of chivalry ? — Enough to say, as went his tale. The wandering eye could notice well. From meaning glance, and speaking air. That thought and feeling slept not there. And soon was seen, 'mong sheeny choir. As thrill'd the gay Equestrian's lyre. The mistress of his lay ; For — glowing with the blush of pride. To modest bashfulness allied^ Who might not mark the Fairy Bride, Erewhile the Virgin Fay ? Yet much I pitied her, as when Had closed her Knight's unmeasur'd strain ; E 2 64 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. For then the tittering laugh got vent. Till half-ofFending merriment Rung through the bright alcovje ; Myself did even smile anon. To hear what mighty deeds were done. Ere brave Sir Cavalier had won The Houri of his love. But Fancy spoke — 'twas strange to hear. Speech, song, or harp, could charm the ear. In Bower of Fairyland, With equal sweetness — every word That fell from fairy-lips, was heard Like witching note of hai*psicord. Waked by fair lady's hand :— " 'Twould suit me ill, my Elfin Bard, " To frown upon thy gallant strain ; " Albeit thou hast ill prepared " Thy song, a mortal's love to gain : " For much the sons of earth will find " To glad the heart, and please the mind, *' Where thou hast witness'd only pain, '* And sought the Queen of Bliss in vain : THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 65 " And sure I am thou knowest welL " (As can thine own experience tell) " So much the human heart is given " To fancy all it loves — of heaven, " That he who would uplift his voice " Against the idols of its choice, *' As thou hast done, shall sadly close " His song, with fewer friends than foes ! " For there is that in heart of clay, " So palpably of wayward mood, " It spurns the friendly hand away, " Which "Avould impair its fancied good, " Though but to change the dream of bliss " From false to real happiness : — " Ay ! sometliing in the living work " Of Nature is, so strangely wild, " Though there the fiends of sorrow lurk, *' Let but the heart be reconciled, *' It is enough. — It will be long '* Before the simple notes of song " Unmask that muffled syi*en. Woe, " That wins the smiles of all below, " In Pleasure's dress, and leads them on " Triumphant, o'er a path imknown — m THE FAIRY MINSTREL. *' A flowery path — the which beneath " Yawns the black sepulchre of Death ! " But let it pass — I had forgot " But that we fill'd some earthly grot, " Where thousand human beings heard " The musings of my Fairy Bard : " Ay ! let it pass — there is but one " Of mortal kind in our divan, " And well I am assured, that here '' No lay of thine can harm his ear : " Nay, should he heed the Minstrel's strain, " When gone to native earth again, '* He'll mind the Grove of Melodye — " Nor need career so far as thee, " To seek the flowery vale of peace, *' Where dwells the Queen of Happiness. " Now tune thy lyre again, to tell " Of that far world where mortals dwell; " For much I'm pleased to hear of earth — " That land that gave to Fancy birth ; " Where life and feeling, sense and soul, " In breathing dust compose a whole, " The which doth beautifully seem " yiic wonder of my endless dream !" THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 6? The Fairy Minstrel stood the while. Bowing assent, with waggish smile. To all she spoke— for well he wot Whate'er was said offended not Where care had no command ; And knowing, too, each fairy mind Was form'd of love —and Love is blind. Whether in heart of human kind. Or fay of Fairyland. He strung his harp of magic neatness ; Thrill'd o'er its wires of witching sweetness ; And soon the bright surrounding throng Kept silence^ for the Minstrel's song : — 2.atfg 5)anc. 'Tis sweet to sit in summer bower. When earth is green, and skies are fair. And breathe the balm of many a flower That blooms in rich luxuriance there : 68 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. But sweeter far, to rest reclined In charming Woman's pure embrace. Where Beauty owns a heart and mind. And soul is in the loveliness. 'Tis sweet to view, at closing day. The beauteous scene of tranquil even. And list to Nature's lightsome lay, That charms the soul like harp of heaven But sweeter far, to mai'k the glow Of kindling love in Woman's eye. And hear that music's melting flow That breathes in soft Affection's sigh. Yea, I have felt as speaks the song ; For what so much a heart could gain As she, for whom my harp is strung — The seraph-like young Lady Jane ? Her cheek outvied the glowing hue Of roses, wet in summer shower ; Her eye, the soft cerulean blue, That circles earth in twilight hour ; THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 69 Her breast, the snow on Alpine height. With auburn ringlets softly fanned ; Her soul — I almost said, was bright And pure as fay's of Fairyland ; Her voice, the mellow nightingale A sweeter sound assays in vain :— And who, in hall of Lily- Vale, So good and fair as Lady Jane ? Oh ! I have seen her infant glee Invite a mother's kind caresses. Ere yet the breeze of summers three Had wanton'd 'mong her baby tresses : And mark'd the cherub gladly con The task a virtuous sire had given :— 'Twas meet the heir of good Sir John Should share with him the joys of heaven. I saw her rise to maiden grace. Of gentle mien, and modest air. With all the winning sweetnesses That deck the form of woman fair. 70 THE FxVIRY MINSTREL. And oft the witching harp she strung. At evening hour I've hearkened long ; While glen and grovej responsive, rung The notes of her celestial song. The wimpling stream that wandered by, Grew still, when flowed the swelling strain ;— Hound, hawk, and dove, came wondering nigh. To list the lyre of Lady Jane. She smiled where Innocence was gay. And own'd young Feeling's kindred glow ; She wept, where Sorrow held the sway, A tear that quench'd the fires of woe. And many a weary pilgrim, toss'd By sad misfortune's blasting gale. Beheld with lighten'd heart, and bless'd The high-born heir of Lily- Vale. To tell the joy — the hope — that smiled On sire and mother fond, were vain : Love's dearest pledge — their only child — Their life of life was Lady Jane ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 71 Thus loved by all, slie seem'd to rise The queen of charity and peace ; Like angel come from paradise. Dispensing naught but blessedness. But why, as riper years drew on. When warm sensations move the breast. At times would seem young Jane alone. Though 'midst her gay companions placed Why could the gazer's watching eye. Perceive, in Friendship's circle fair. Her breast cfft steal a secret sigh. As if the deed forbidden were ? And why, when good Sir John had brought His guests to feast at evening-tide. Gazed she on one, as if forgot The blandishments of all beside ? Needs not the far-fetch'd lore of art. To solve the secret — good or ill ; For Jane possess'd a feeling heart. And Love will be triumphant still. 72 THE^FAIRY MINSTREL. Yes ! — scarcely had she seen the sun Of twice nine summers warm the plain. When brave Lord William's kindness won The virgin heart of Lady Jane. His lands were wide, his honour true. His noble deeds by all approved ; And seem'd his fame and virtue too. Pure as the spotless maid's he loved. Oh I oft I've seen them gladly stray. At closing eve in glen or grove. Pure as the dew that wet the spray. And happy as the blest above. And many a joyful hour to tell. O'er these young lovers glided on, Till sweet affection's sinless spell Had bound their yielding hearts in one. And oh ! the love that fill'd each breast, I would to all mankind were given ; For mortal ne'er could be unblost. Whose bosom felt so much of heaven. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 73 Thus high on hope's unwearying wing. What marvel if young Jane was gay ? The ring was bought— the wedding ring— The day was set — the bridal day. And spread the tidings far and wide. Till Thane and peasant heard the tale. How brave Lord William owned his bride. The peerless maid of Lily- Vale. Their moments passed without alloy. And aye they sought the sylvan grove ; Warm with the hope of wedded joy- Lost in the ecstasy of love ! And fast flew on those hours of peace. That led to gladness dearer prized. When Hope's fair dreams of nuptial bliss. Should all be sweetly realized. But know ye not, so vastly strange Is still the lot of man below. That soon a fleeting hour ean change. His boasted bliss, to care and woe. 74, THE FAIRY MINSTREL. " Ah ! but young Jane may never grieve, " Nor brave Lord William sorrow own ?" So may they fondly thus believe. Who have no more of mortals known. But I have seen the rising sun Shine brightly o'er a smiling world. And ere his glorious race was run. Athwart his rays a tempest hurl'd. And I have seen, 'neath morning sky. The lovely floweret fair in bloom. But heard the evening zephyrs sigh A mournful requiem o'er its tomb. And yet, methinks, it cannot be That I must change the pleasing theme. And dim with dark reality. The brightness of my blissful dream. No, no ! — 'tis but a vapoury shade That flits around the prying mind; But hope revives — the mist hatli fled. And left a brighter sky behind. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 75 Then hence farcboding fears away ; My harp is strung for joyful strain — Lord William's heart is light and gay. And grief is far from Lady Jane. But on a mild and lovely even, As wont, the happy lovers roam. To breathe their solemn vows to Heaven, And talk of higher bliss to come. Lard William spake — " My best beloved I Thou all on earth I deem divine, I joy thou hast my suit approved. And now my heart — my all is thine. ** Yet must I leave thee, love, awhile ; — My princely wealth lies o'er the sea : But soon the cheering hour wiU smile That brings me back to love and thee. " Then gladly shall our guests behold. The splendour of our nuptials gay ; For all must shine in dazzling gold. On high Lord William's bridal day !" 76 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. " Ah, clearest ! why so fond to rove. Far o'er the deep and dangerous sea? Thy presence, and thy welcome love. Are dearer than the world to me. ^' And what if should misfortune's woe. Across my William's path be thrown ? Alas ! then must a nation know. What only thou and I have known !'* " Now smile as wont, and hush thy fears. Dispel thy doubts, sweet Lady Jane ; I grieve to see thee thus in tears, I sigh to give thy bosom pain. ^* My steed is swift to pace the land^ My bark is fleet to skiff the sea ; My ann is deft to wield a brand. Should foemen keep me back from thee " And swear I by yon starry sky. And every grace in Honour's train. That ere the silvery moon on high. Shall twice in heaven wax and wane. THE FAIRY MINSTREI^ 77 " My stately bark, through storm or strifie. Returns me safe — and, mark me well I That night Lord William's wedded wife Is lovely Jane of Lily- Vale 1" Did this not seem a slight pretence. To cause the maiden's bosom grief?— But love and female innocence. Are blamed not much for unbelief. They doubled twice the parting kiss — They sigh'd — and look'd to heaven above ; For well, in such an hoiir as this. Is needed prayer for faithful love. The tide is high — the wind is fair- Lord William's bark, far o'er the sea. Like falcon skimming through the air. On her wide way moves gallantly ! How felt young Jane ? — In thought profound. She felt — but how she could not tell ; For all above — beneath — around, Seem'd whispering still — " Sweet Jane, farewell !" 78 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. But on the shore this Lady stood. And watch'd the stately vessel's motion Till hull, and man, and mast, and shroud, Evanish'd on the boundless ocean : Then left the beach with watery eye ; — And often heaved her breast of snow. That deep — that stupifying sigh. Which none but parting lovers know. Yet her's was not that settled grief. That time will try to heal in vain ; For dawning morning brought relief. To Jane's afflicted heart again. 'Twas bliss to think of William dear, — His latest words were kind and sweet ; 'Twas bliss to think the day was near. When every joy would shine complete. Reflecting thus on past delight. And 'boding future days of peace. She spent the day, and dreamt the night. In high Ideal happiness. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And many a knight of gallant name. And many a noble dame and peeiv With kind congratulations came. As Jane's proud bridal-day drew near. Her maidens knew the promised hour. And soon her wedding gai'ments told; — They fringed her veil with silvery flower. And starred her silky robes with gold. And soon nor grief, nor care was known — Young Jane forgot her past distress. For Hope kept ever talking on. Of Love's voluptuous feast of bliss. And now, she watch'd the moon, with joy. Sublimely through the Iieavens roam. Which soon would mount the spangled sky. To warn her gallant lover liorae. That moon is full ! — It must not wane ! To-raorrow is the trysted day !— To-morrow— happy Lady Jane ! Lord William's bark shall ride the bay. F 2 80 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. The morning came — the trysted hour — The smiling sun ascended brightly ; Gay banners streara'd on high Watch Tower, Where Jane's young heart was throbbing lightly. The tide flow'd full — she scanned the deep — The wind blew fair o'er lake and lea ; But strange ! the favouring breezes sweep. The bo£om of a shipless sea ! " What means this sorrow unforeseen ?" The lovely weeping lady cried, " I thought my trials past had been— How do I find them multiplied ! ** Be calm, my spirit ! — why repine So soon ? — thy sky is not o'ercast : The sun of joy will brighter shine To-morrow, when the cloud has pass'd." The morrow came — the tide flow'd liigh — She sought the Watch Tower on tlie hill— The favouring zephyrs gently sigli, But lo ! the sea is shipless still ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. SI " What means this dizziness of brow— This chill of disappointed pride ? Can William e'er forget his vow. Forget his own affianced bride ? " Avaunt, Suspicion, from my breast ! I will not yield to vain alarms ; Another sun shall see me blest, Lock'd in my faithful William's arms !" Another sun rose bright and fair— The winds bore fragrance o'er the hill ; Ascend the Watch Tower ! — Jane is there ; But ah ! the sea is shipless still ! Another day — another week- Ay ! and a month, too swiftly flew. Nor cape, nor promontory's peak. Could mark Lord William's sail in view. 'Twas then the blasting thoughts of pain Swell'd her young breast with gnawing smart ; 'Twas then the lightnings of the brain Flash'd terror o'er her trembling heart ! M THE FAIRY MINSTREL. No coui'Ier sought her father's door — No messenger of mercy came ; The day of promised bliss was o'er. And fast approach'd the day of shame ! " Shame ! — powers of love ! — how can it be ? " Shame ! — how record the frightful tale, *' And dim the sun, that gloriously " So long has shone on Lily- Vale ? " Nay, cease false harper ! — wouldst thou try " To stain a spirit pure as light ?" No ! — bat I've seen the dazzling sky Bedimmed and clouded long ere night. " Ah ! but her beauty, birth, and fame, " Let Honour and let Virtue tell— " Could aught of sin, or sinful name, "With that angelic maiden dwell?" Away with Beauty ! — it shall die As dies the clay that bears its bloom ; And but in cold corruption lie. To thicken weeds above its tomb ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. »3 Away "with wealth, and rank, and blrtli. And fame — oft too profusely given ! The flowers that bloom for aye on earth. Bloom only in the path to heaven. " Was she not virtuous !" — question not, — My harp grows weary of the strain : Ah ! think on mortals' wayward lot. But spare me well my Lady Jane. 'Tis sad to see the scowling storm. With deadly sweep, relentless rise. And fast the faii'est flowers deform That bloom beneath the summer skies. But deeper sorrow far, to view Young Beauty wrapt in dai'k despair. And mark the beaming eye of blue Grow dim beneatli the frowns of Care. And now, fain would I close the strain : Yet must I change my theme and tell " Tell what ? — naught ill of Lady Jane ?" — Ay ! — Love was blind, and Virtue Jell ! M THE FAIRY MINSTREL. What pleasure now can joy impart, What peace can e'er his bosom know. Who sees that lovely Lady's heart Lie bleeding in the depths of woe ? " But false Lord William — where is he — " Still lives he in far distant land ? " Or sleeps he 'neath the surging sea ? " Or sank he 'neath the assassin's hand ?"* No ! — Heard ye not yon marriage bell. That sweetly chimed at evening's close. Where, dancing to the music's swell. The village swains forsook repose ? " We heard it — 'twas a merry peal !— " For whom did Hymen there preside ?'* I'll tell it ! — 'tis a blasting tale ! — Lord William rveds a foreign bride ! The wretch has bow'd at Mammon's shrine. And sold his love for wide domain ; And there he drowns in rosy wine All thoughts of injured Lady Jane ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 85 Seducer !— thus in pieces tear The tender heart that loved him dearly ; And wake the storms of sorrow^ where Affection's zephyrs sigh'd sincerely ! My curse is on him * — he shall live To drink the very dregs of woe ; No earthly joy shall comfort give — For him no tear of pity flow ! My curse is on him ! — he shall die. As dies the sinner — ufiforgiven ! Without a hope beyond the sky — Without a friend in earth or heaven ! And long may Lady Jane look o'er The castle wall, to Tvatch the sea ; Her lover false returns no more,— Yon deep will ever shipless be. But now the roses sweet decay. That bloom'd upon her cheek so fair. Her smile of beauty fades away, Beneath a thinking brow of care. 86 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. Nor might a mother's watchful eye Be blinded long with unbelief; She saw her daughter's ceaseless sigh. And half could guess the cause of grief. ^' What ails thee now, my daughter dear. Why is thy harp unstrung so long ? I never see thee smile, nor hear Thy wonted sweet and gladsome song. "^ I watch thee weep from morn to eve, I see thy lovely cheek grow pale ; — What pining sorrow thus should grieve The high-born heir of Lily- Vale ? " Fy on Lord William's slighting love ! Th)'^ charms a worthier match will gain ; So cheer thee well — for Heaven above Sure smiles on virtuous Lady Jane." " Away, away, my mother dear ! Had I been true to Heaven above, I ne'er had shed this bitter tear. Nor niourn'd Lord William's slighting love ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 87. " Alas ! the kindly vows he made, I judged could be forgotten never ; But how shall I my shame evade. Since hope and he have fled forever?" " What means my child ?" — " My mother dear ! = I have a deadening tale to tell !" " Speak on — I tremble — let me hear " "Love — Love was blind, and Virtue foil !" She wept. — Did not her mother weep ? No ! — She but heaved one sigh of pain : Her eye was fix'd — the sigh was deep She broke her heart for Lady Jane 1 The beadsman prayed— the death-bell rung. The mournful obsequies were said. And many a holy requiem sung. For that departed matron's shade. But soon ebb'd back the tide of grief, • Soon heal'd each mourner's heart again ; One little month brought some relief To all — but none to Lady Jane. as THE FAIRY MINSTREL. Her sire beheld her ceaseless tears. And spoke — " What ails my daughter fair ? It suits but ill thy tender years. Such heavy load of grief to bear. " Come smile, my love ! — no days of ruth For thee, e'er hinted seer or sage ; Thou, who wert still my pride in youth, Shalt be my comforter in age, " Thy mother's loss may grieve a while. But time can soon young bosoms heal — And yet must heaven and gladness smile On virtuous Jane of Lily- Vale !" " Away, away, my father dear ! Waste not these kindly words on me ; Thy sorrowing daughter cannot bear To take one blessing more from thee. " Ah ! had not false Lord William's ai-t. Seduced thy cljild from good to ill ; Mine liad not been a broken heart— My mother dear had blest thee still ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 9$ " I may not ask to be forgiven — I cannot soothe this ffantic brain ! But soon I hope to find in heaven. That peace I seek on earth in vain." " What means my daughter ?"— " Hush, my sire 1 I have a whehning tale to tell ! — My heart is sick — my brain on fire — Love — Love was blind, and Virtue fell!" Did he not bless his daughter dear. Affection's kindest love to claim ? Or grasp'd he his unerring spear. To save his beauteous child from shame .'' He bless'd not — cursed not — word ne'er spoke — But only breathed one dying groan ; For there, like lightning-splinter'd rock. Was cleft the heart of old Sir John ! Young Jane raised up her father's head- She bathed his livid brow in balm ; Then calmly gazed upon the dead ! — Ay ! — but it was a dreadful calm! 90 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 'Tis night — and through the gloom profound The lightnings flare from pole to pole — The storm is up ! — and hark ! around The mountain-rocking thunders roll ! Yet Jane has left her father's Tower, Nor man nor maiden saw her pass ! — Where went she ? — only to the Bower, To vent a while her soul's distress. She saw the dove she nursed when young ; She met the lamb herself had rear'd ; The faithful hound, that fawn'd her long, And aye in danger's hour appeared. The dove on castle wall 'gan mourn — The bleeting lamb approach'd not nigh ; She fawned the hound — but, sad return, ' The angry brute went growling bye ! Strange voices float the midnight airi How awful is yon torrent's boil ! My spirit shrinks to see the glare. That dazzles o'er its dread turmoil J THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 91 Hark ! — heard you not an infant's cry ? And, too, a lady-mother's wail ? — For sliame ! — 'twas but the night- wind's sigh. And moaning of the weary gale. But Jane is not in castle bower ! Ah ! whither may despair have driven ? — Hush ! — oft she strays at midnight hour To supplicate the grace of Heaven. Yet 'tis a fearful night to roam. Wild thoughts come flashing o'er my brain ! Yon flood Ha ! there she floats the foam ! I'll break my heart for Lady Jane! Now where do I stand ? — and what do I hear — The plaints of the living — ^the groans of the dying? No! — here but the cherub-like circles appear. And only the balmy-wing'd zephyrs are sighing! The sunshine of pleasure — the dark clouds of woe. Smiling and frowning on mortals below ; ^ TFIE FAIRY MINSTREL. Courtship and kindness — sorrow and care ; Bridal-bed — wedding-feast — grief atid despair ; Past days of gladness — present of pain ; Faithless Lord William — and fair Lady Jane ; — All — all — vanish from sight. As opens my eyes in the land of light; All — ^^all— vapour a\Vay, Like mist ffom the mountains at dawn of day. As dies on my ear the Minstrel's strain ; And Fairyland beams on my spirit again t But listening to the tale of woe, I saw nor fairyland nor fay ; My heart — afar on earth below. Was wandering with the Singer's lay : And though in Fancy's mansions, where Could enter naught of human care. Yet to my sympathizing breast, Even in that glorious land of rest, There was at times a feeling given, That eavour'd more of earth than heaven J To tnat\i sweet virtue glowing brightly In lovely woman's beflming eye ; THE FAIRY MINSTREI.. p To see her young heart throbbing liglitly. Or melting soft at Pity's sigh — As sang the Minstrel — I coul4 feel New gladness through my bosom steal. And felt ambition strong, to rise And boast my birth-place in the skies f-^- Bat then, to view young lady fair. Like blighted flower in autumn blastj. All withering in the winds of care. Her beauty — virtue — ^^honour lost, A hectic flush came o'er my cheek. My mouth was opened half, to speak A double curse upon his head. Who had the peerless fair betrayed— A curse in earth and sky. On traitor false, who dared presume So foul to breathe on stainless bloom, Then leave, in Misery's deepest gloom^ The lovely flower to die 1 Yet this was but a passing thought Which in my bosom tarried not. Whene'er the Faiiiy Minstrel's lay Upon my ear had died *way i p4 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. For then beheld my wondering eyes The blooming Bower of Paradise, Where smiled the sheeny-mantled core. All gay and glad as heretofore. I saw them weep not — but perchance They did, when I was lost in trance, To hear the Bard his story tell. That bound me in a double spell. — 'Twas marvellous how I could not weep. To hear that tale of sorrow deep ; Yet wept I not — in Fancy's Bower I then could feel no grief or pain : But often since, in lonely hour, I've dropt a tear for Lady Jane. — Nor heard I if Queen Fancy spoke. To praise or blame her Minstrel's lay Perchance she did — before was broke The spell that stole my heart away— I know not — this at least I know. Nor saw nor felt I aught of woe. Save it might be a slight rcgi-et To find the Singer's liarp unstrung ; Yet little space was left to fret. So soon again its music rung. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 95 For, gazing round with pleasure new. The odour-breathing Bower to view. Where smiled the elfin train. And thinking of the bliss I shared. Of what I saw — had seen and heard — I wist not till the Fairy Bard Had waked his lyre again :— C5e <(5iio^t oi n^t !i)an. 'Tis charming to look on the earth and the sky. When the sun o'er the world rises glorious and grand^ While the breeze like the breath of a spirit wafts by. And the sweet voice of music is heard in the land. And 'tis charming to mark, with the opening light. All nature spring up from the slumbers of night ; While the sun shines above, and the earth smiles below. Where summer-flowers all their rich fragrance bestow ; And the world seems to nothing but happiness known. While the chariot of Time moves eternally on. e2 g6 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And as bright and as beautiful dignified Man In the scale of the mighty creation had stood. Had held to his God, nor perverted the plan Which the Author of Being design'd for his good. His soul, like the sun in the splendour of day. Had enlighten'd his heart with a life-giving ray ; And his heart, fair as earth when the summer is bright. Had revolved round her heavenly fountain of light — A world, all unknown to the tempest and gloom. Where only the virtues and graces might bloom. — But Man, by transgressing the mandates of Heaven, Was down from his angel-like altitude driven ; And now, would ye hear how destruction is dealt. In the cup of hot wrath to the children of Guilt- How the wicked like sear'd leaf in autumn will fall ; Then list to my tale of— the Ghost of the Hall ! Old Baron Glengregor fell sick, and he died — The priest knew it not, and he perish'd unshriven ! But Baron Glengregor the Cross ne'er denied. And charity trusted his sins were forgiven. To wisdom a friend, and to folly a foe. The Baron was loved by the high and the low ; From coui'tier, to lackey who own'd his controul W^as praised and admired his beneficent soul ; THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 97 And the gooti, and the great, and the high in renown. Were proud with the Baron their friendsliip to own : But esteem'd by the many — to none it was given To mark how or when went his spirit to heaven ; No kinsman — albeit he boasted enow — Was present to wipe the chill damp from his brow. Or the balm of relief to his breast to impart. When the Enemy's flings were encircling his heart ! But without or the voice of a friend to condole. Or the prayers of the righteous to strengthen his soul, Or affection to soothe — or physician to save — His spirit was launched o'er eternity's wave ! But dire were the omens, and dread was the night. When the soul of Glengregor from earth took its flight; Strange visions were seen in the earth and the sky. Unmeet for the holy monk's sanctified eye : And sounds from afar oft attracted the ear. Unmeet for the heralds of mercy to hear ! In the stillness of midnight, was fearfully driven A chariot of flame through the blackness of heaven ; The rider look'd terrible — vengeance and ire His spirit denounced from his eye-balls of fire ; 98 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. And all who had witness'd his ominous flight. Were chill'd into horror, and shrank from the sight I The sleeper beheld not the vision above. Yet shook like the aspin — though dreaming of love, — The night-bird scream'd loud — and the fox of the ben Slank into the nethermost hole of his den, — The ships on the ocean with billows were lash'd. Though winds were asleep, and the tempests allhush'd; While Nature convulsed, woi'C an a&pect of woe. As if the infernals had burst from below ! — And soon in his wane was the charioteer hurled. With frightful velocity down on the world : He drove to the Baron's proud castle, Benlaw ; But the rider — the steed — and the chariot of awe. With a mutter of vengeance, and shriek of despair. Evanished away to nonentity there ! And then was there something in Castle Benlaw, Which some only heard — and which some only saw ; 'Twas a vision that fill'd the beholder with gloom — 'Twas a prophecy heavy with horrible doom : Yet ne'er durst the gazer his vision reveal. And the hearer was fain what he heard to conceal ; For all that with terror the mind can appal. Was told by the soul-awing Ghost of the Hall J THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 99 The moi'iiing arose, and tlie night-spectres fled. The morning arose — but Glengregor was dead ! — A sigh of regret, and a feeling of pain. Pervaded the bosom of peasant and Thane, While sorrow and tears in the Castle were found ; But the tongue of Suspicion there whisper'd around, " Would ye hear how the Baron so suddenly fell ? — " Lord Donald and Lady Glengregor can tell !" And so the good Baron — be sunshine or storm — Had finish'd his days of existence beneath ; In the Hall of the Tower lay his spiritless form. All gorgeously clad in the trappings of death. But the matron that shrouded the Baiun, 'tis said. Had rather herself been the motionless dead. Than felt what she felt, or than seen what she saw. While mantling his corse in the Castle Benlaw ! And 'tis said how the sad Undertaker could be But little the richer, though handsome his fee, Ere the Baron Glengregor was hearsed to the clay That cover'd the vault where his ancestors lay! A score of good yeomen, it needed them all The Baron's pale corse to remove from the Hall, But die phalanx required reinforcement, I ween. Ere the coffin was safe past the barbican seen. — 100 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. Six steeds panted long in the wearisome yoke. But the hearse stood as firm as the deep-rooted rock ! Their number was doubled — exerting their power. The space that a child could have paced in an hour It served them, in killing oppression, to go. From the dawn till the sun in the heavens was low : While, soon as the charnel-house echoed the tread That solemnly warned the approach of the dead. The full-foaming team, now all draggled and worn. Fell dead as the cumbersome load they had borne ! Then, I trow, was the Cross on each bosom oft made. And a quick Ave-Mary as oftentimes said. As the Baron, 'mid thunder, and lightning, and gloom. Was consign'd to the peaceful abodes of the tomb : For then was there uttered a heart-chilling groan — While a voice murmer'd low fi*om beneath the dark stone, " Would ye hear how the Baron so suddenly fell ? — " Lord Do7iald and Lady Glengregor can tell !" Now Lady Glengregor, still fair as the morn. And sweet to the sight as a dew-sprinkled rose. Was left in her sorrow — a widow forlorn — To the pity of friends, and the scandal of foe». THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 101 Is that the fair parricide. Slander has said. Who held the death-cup to her dear husband's head? Alas ! could fell Passion's iniquitous spell The heart-fires of conjugal duty e'er quell ? Or the hand of that lady the potion impart That chill'd the warm blood of her lord's loving h eart ? Did she dread not the vengeance of Heaven above. To join in the guilt of her paramour's love. Nor think of stern Judgment that never can sleep When the crime and the stain of the sinner are deep ?— Ah, horrible tale ! — if Suspicion speak truth — 'Twas his bosom companipn, the wife of his youth. That frankly and freely the poison-cup press'd On the Baron, while smiling she leant on his breast ! Alas for the Lady, if such be her scaith ! Alas for Lord Donald, in life and in death ! For the gnawings of conscience shall prey on their prime. Nor eternity cancel the guilt of their crime. But now had Glengregor long slept in the dust, (So at least Superstition's worst enemies spake) And the edge of Dismay was beginning to rust. As Memory grew dull on the Baron's late-wake : 102 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. While now the proud Castle, so lately the stage Of a scene that delights not in youth or in age. Was changed from a dwelling of death and alloy. To a temple of mirth, and a mansion of joy- There high lord and lady the evening prolong, With the soul-lifting dance and the heart-thrilling song. And the route at the banquet, and loud merrimake. Have banished the gloom of the Baron's late- wake. And now till the seasonless sorrows of earth. Sweet Hymen dispells with his sunbeam of mu'th. For gallant Lord Donald is thei-e in his pride. With the Lady Glengregor as gay by his side. And the revellers drink to the Bridegroom and Bride ! The bridal-day came on the pinions of joy. The evening arrived — and the banquet was set;— Brave spirits were buoyant — soft hearts flutter'd high. When Priest and proud marriage-guest joyfully met. The bridegroom and bride now were link'd in the chain. That love will not seek to unfetter again. And to which will affection and reason comply. Till a higher than mortal unravel the tie. — Here silky robes flaunted, and blue eyes beam'd bright, And bosoms sighed gently — o'erborne with delight. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 103 While the board creak'd beneath the luxuriant load Its beneficent owner profusely bestow'd. Then oh ! it was gladdening to look on the throng, As they gleefully joined in the dance or the song; For seem'd the fair ladies that graced the saloon, A group of sweet roses enamoured of June ; While sparkled the jewels and stars of the brave. Like sunbeams condensed on the zephyr-borne wave ! The bowl with the sweets of the vintage was fraught. And lavishly dealt the enspiriting draught ; The harp of each minstrel to flattery strung. And the high-flowing epithalamium sung; There was joy in each heart — there was love in each eye ; Aiid thus went the hours of hilarity bye — Till a stranger among them the wassailers saw. And a wonder appear'd in the hull of Benlaw ! The still noon of midnight was fast drawing near, Unhush'd the loud harp — unabated the cheer ; When lo! as the guests rimmed the crystal-spread board. There joined them a jewel-caparison'd lord — A stranger, forsooth .'—and unnoticed by all Or how or what time he had entered the Hall ! 104 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. His manner was bland — his deportment was high — Proud majesty roll'd in his heart-searching eye. And well might his word have the power to command. For attention obey'd the least waive of his hand. A damping sensation pervaded the whole. And a feeling of jealousy loWer'd on each soul ; Yet they welcomed him freely — thro' kindness or fear — And the stranger as merrily join'd in their cheer. A moment 'twas stillness and wonder — but soon The clamour of jollity fill'd the saloon ; The harpers resumed their enlivening strain. And merriment rung through the Castle again. But the eye that was brighter with reason than wine. Saw what in the stranger was ill to divine ; For the tongue not a trace of his lineage could tell Though Memory seem'd to remember him well ! And 'twas noticed by some how his soul-prying stare Was often and long on the new-coupled pair ; HoAV the tapers — crewhile blazing brilliant and high- Were dimmed by the withering glance of his eye ; How the dancers th.-it felt but a waft of his breath, Their ruddy checks cliangcd to the paleness of death ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 105 But awed by his princely and dignified air, They question'd not how the high Stranger was there. He quaffed the full bowl with the revellers gay ; He mix'd in the dance, and applauded the lay ; And soon, feigning free with the jovial throng. He proffer'd — though ceites unbidden — his song. Oh, Love is fair and beautiful. When Passion bows to Pride, And Love is kind and dutiful. When Virtue is its guide ; But Love is black and blossomless. When guile is on his wmg. And deadly to the bosom's peace, When guilt is in his sting ! Oh, Woman looks in verity A seraph of the sky. When beauty, love, and purity. Are beaming in her eye i . II 106 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. But Woman is a blighted flower. Whose charms are all decayed. When modesty has slighted her. And innocency fled ! Oh, Man is unto Woman dear The sun that lights the moon. When his high soul is beaming fair In Honour's splendid noon ; But Man is like a blasted tree. That shields or shadows none. When honovir, truth, and majesty. Have from his bosom gone ! Oh, Lovers sure are witnesses. When guileless passions move, A Pax-adise of sweetnesses Is found in sinless love ; But sorrows soon awaken them. To weep the weary time. When Virtue has forsaken them. And Passion led to Crime ! Oh, Marriage sweet is truly bliss, Wlien hearts and spirits join ; THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 107 Then, then is love made holiness, And pleasure's self divine ; But Marriage is delusion deep, When faithless bosoms sigh. For soon the deadly poison-cup. Can break the holy tie ! But woe to hearts so hori'ible. As hate their bosom friend ; How fearful and how terrible. Shall be their latter end ! Then toast not in the Baron's bower. The bridegroom and the bride ; But curse — the guilty Paramour Who weds the Parricide ■ " Lord Donald, be up ! — how insulting the song ! — " Disgrace on thy clan if the dagger forgive : " Lord Donald, be up ! — or Suspicion, that long " Was dead in the bosom of Friendship, shall live !" Lord Donald sprang up like the wolf to his prey. For his bride seem'd a statue of motionless clay ; im THE FAIRY MINSTREL. Lord Donald sprang up — though his heart was exiled. His eye of revenge roU'd alarmingly wild ! His dagger gleam'd lightning — confusion ensued — For his vengeance-dried spirit was thirsty for blood : '" Now lience from my presence, intruder ! — away ! — " Thou diest were it thine the high sceptre to sway ; ^' Thus taunt in my castle — surcharged with my wine ! (A voice whispei-ed. soft — ' Nay, tlie castle is mine !') " False Stranger, thou liest ! now hence from my sight — " My dogs on thy carcase shall banquet this night !" He said, and his dagger he drew, with a frown. To smite — to smite what ? — sith the Stranger was gone ! He mixed not tlie multitude ti-embling around ; They search'd, nor his shape nor his shadow they found ! But a flash of strange light flicker'd blue o'er the wall. And a voice mutter'd low — " 'Twas the Ghost of the Hall !" The new-wedded pair to tlieir chamber were led. In tlic bliss of affection tlieir fears to remove; To soothe them with sleep on the soft bridal bed. And dream fairer scenes in the slumbers of love. The danger is over — now haste, happy Bride, The curtains of silk from thy couch draw aside— THE FAIRY MINSTREL, IO9 'Tis done — Ha ! but why that wild shriek of despair ?■ Ye seraphs of mercy 1 Glengregor was there I The Castle is rocking — the chamber o!i fire — There ! see the old Baron stand big in his ire f The thunders roll loud in the woe-beset room — The lightnings are flashing through tempest and gloom T — Hark ! a voice that is rending the earth and the sky:^ " Now vengeance is due, and the guilty shall die !" When lo ! ere the sinners on mercy could call. They vanish'd away v/ith the Ghost of the Hall I The Minstrel closed his fearful sti'ain — 'Twas silence for a space again ; And now there came a feeling o'er My heart, which I had felt before. When dwelling in terrestrial clime. Surrounded with the scenes of time ; It was a glow of friendship — here I thought of those who once were dear To me on earth — and if 'twas known To them, where I their friend had crone,- 110 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. I look'd around the Bower to find Sweet forms that Memory brought to mind. So dearly loved in former days— But, none to greet my anxious gaze, I mark'd my bosom heave a sigh. And felt a tear start to my eye — A sigh, the sweeter it was deep ; A tear, 'twas blessedness to weep ! To think on loving friends below. Who once as fondly thought of me. When soft sensations wont to glow. And youth and love were light and free — To think that how perchance they were Still lingering in a world of care. Exposed to every cursing wile. That lurks in grief-begetting guile — Exposed to crime, that ci'owning sorrow. That seldom finds a bright to-morrow — Might well a pitying sigh demand. Yea, claim a tear in Fairyland. 'Tis all delusion ! — on my ear Has died tlie music's latest tone ; THE FAIRY MINSTREL. Ill Bright Fays and Fairyland are here. And earth and mortals disappear. And sin and crime are gone } 'Tis all delusion ! — not a tear Has ever wet my eyelids here ; Nor thought nor sigh of woe Have marr'd my tranquil bosom's peace; This heart so full of happiness Could never sorrow know ! So changed the dream — again — again — When closed the Fairy Minstrel's strain ; But now sweet music fiU'd the sky. For hark ! upon the silence broke Soft sounds of heavenly symphony. As thus the Empress Fancy spoke :. — " Sir Fairy, now thy harp has long " Been waked to tales of human woe ; '* But hast thou ne'er a happier song " To sing us of the land below ? *' Or doth the overflowing tide " Of misery, wave so high and wide " O'er every spot of human ground^ II 2 112 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. " That not a mountain top is seen, " Nor yet a branch of olive green, " Above the whelming flood is found ? — " Nay, Fairy Biird, it is not so, " For I myself have been below, " A sojom-ner on earth— and known " Its sinless joys so like our own, " That then I reckon'd not " On higher bliss— it heaven seem'd, " And Fairyland itself was deem'd " Unworthy of a thought ! — " Then wake thy tuneful harp again, " And softly chaunt some pleasing strain " To grace the sacred wire ; " For while the bad deserve thy blame, " The good a note of praise may claim ^' From thy celestial lyre !" The Fairy Minstrel — witching elf! I think him yet before my sight. Fairer than Beauty's very self. And ever pleased to give delight— He beckon'd approbation — then Were licard his harp and song again ; — THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 113 3luc|? (GvcTO^ How dear their hopes and joys beneativ Who journey Virtue's flowery path And Wisdom's voice obey ! Ah ! who avow that pleasures fail The bosom pure, who hears the tale Of sweet young Lucy Gray. No lofty rank — no gaudy show — Nor splendid worldly wealth below^, Was Lucy's lot to own : Her home — a rural mansion — stood Far in a lonely solitude. To busy life unknown. And there, in innocence and peace. Nursed by parental tenderness. To maiden years she grew ; From pride and giddy fashion free. And each illusive mockery That wins Ambition's view. 114 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. The star of eve, in fairest light. To Piety shone not so briglit Nor pure as Lucy's eye ; The fragrant breeze from flowery spot. To meek Devotion savoured not So sweet as Lucy's sigh. How would with joy her bosom swell To hear the solemn Sabbath bell Proclaim a hallowed hour ! How would her heart in gladness swim.. To chaunt the holy vesper hymn. And feel its soothing power ! These were the joys that could impart To Lucy's pure and siiiless heart The dearest of delight : — Compared with these, the mirthful hall. The dance — the play — the festival- Were folly in her sight. Nor envied she the nobler state And pleasures, of the rich and great. Who move in circle high ; THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 115 To her enough of wealth was given. For Lucy was a child of heaven— An heiress of the sky I Yet is it not on earth below That pleasure o'er the ills of woe May claim unshaken sway ; For still are lighter sorrows there, Which good and bad alike must share^ And so must Lucy Gray. 'Twas summef — and a beauteous even. When softly fell the dews of heaven. And slowly rose the moon. Whose visage pale, and bashful light. Full well might show the Queen of Niglit Was sick for love of June r Had died the small birds' latest lay. And silence held unbroken sway Beneath — around — above : All — all asleep — save Zephyr light. Who waked to gossip out the night With Flora, in the grove : 11 C> THE FAIRY MINSTREL. As wont, the glen young Lucy sought. To spend an hour in holy thought. And meditate awhile On other worlds above the skies. To which the just of earth will rise. All free from sin and guile. High oaks hang branching o'er her head — Beneath were fragrant wild-flowers spread. That odours sweet bestowed ; And well was charm 'd the vesper hour. While thus, in that romantic bower. Her evening anthem flowed : — Etun'g ^nt]bcm. How soothing to wander at night. When Silence asserts her controul ! Exchanging the beauties of sight. For the lovelier visions of soul ; To muse on those mansions of day. To Piety's followers given. Where innocent spirits alway Sing glory — sing glory to Heaven ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 117 This earth is a wilderness drear. Though robed in a mantle of bloom ; A region where sorrow and fear Lead on to the merciless tomb : But Hope is the helm of our breast, And guides through mortality's sea. To a land, where the souls of the just Immortally blessed shall be. How sweet at the closing of day, The beauties of nature to view. When Silence has Echo at bay. And Flora is sleeping in dew ! But lovelier chaniis to the sight The graces of virtue display ; For the heart that is pure and upright. Is a flower that will never decay. How brightly yon planets are beaming. The garment of night to adorn — Through heaven refulgently streaming A light like the glory of morn ] But brighter and fairer will shine Pure spirit of mortal on high. Where noon-day shall never decline. Nor vapour e'er darken the sky. 118 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. There — there, in the regions of bliss. There — there, in the kingdom of souls. The righteous shall flourish in peace. While endless eternity rolls : And oh ! that I were in that land To Piety's followers given, To taste immortality — and Sing glory — sing glory to Heaven { Had scarcely ended Lucy's song. When lo ! the shading trees among. Through dusky gloaming light, A lonely wanderer met her view. By whose broad shield and mace she knew He was a warrior wight. His gait was high — his manner pi-oud — His visage grim as lowering cloud, When pregnant with the storm ; His brow was stern — his eyes were bright— (But sooth they bcam'd with other light Tium eyes of human form !) THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 119 Young Lucy started — shriek'd to see Approach, in sullen majesty. That love-forbidding knight : A moment 'twas a stilly gloom. And darkness dreary as the tomb : — But soon the moon shone bright ; And then could Lucy better brook Upon her visitor to look. At first so grim and dread ; For now his mien, erst harsh to view, Relax'd a space and milder grew. As thus the warrior said : — '' Start not, sweet maid ! though wayward lot Has brought me to this lonely spot. To list thy evening song ; — A warrior fear'd and famed am I, And boasting dignity too high A harmless maid to wrong. " Yet seem I so unwelcome here. That thus thy looks betoken fear ? — Nay, lovely damsel, smile ! 120 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. For, by my gauntlet ! (baulking sin), Thy charms have power enough to win The Knight of Holy Isle !" Fair Lucy blush'd in virgin shame. To hear pronounced his mystic name. And spoke with anxious fear : " If Knight of Holy Isle you be. Brave warrior, deign not speech to me, So little thy compeer." " Oh ! Lucy, I have heard thy lay. And known thy wish to be away From earth of sin and guile ; Then, wouldst thou trust a warrior brave. My bark shall bear thee o'er the wave Afar, to Holy Isle. " 'Tis true this world's a vale of tears. Where trials, crosses, sorrows, fears. Abound o'er all the way ; But wilt thou come to Holy Isle, Forever bloom, forever smile, Shall lovely Lucy Gray." THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 121 The maiden trembled — yet 'twas strange. She felt her thoughts to kindness change. And heaved a gentle sigh ; For, scanning well that wondrous Knight, Lo ! now he seem'd an angel bright To Lucy's loving eye I " Sir Knight, how would this bosom grieve My parents — friends — and home to leave ? I cannot come with thee :— But dost thou fancy maid of earth. Fair lady seek of nobler birth. And higher name than me." " Lov'st thou dear friends ? — but come with me. And dearer friends shall welcome thee To home more sweet and fair ; And art thou blest with joy and peace ? But tenfold present happiness Shall fill thy bosom there. " I need not wealth — enough I have^ My arm is strong — my heart is brave^^^ And wide extends my sway ; 122 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. I reckon not on pedigree — So come with me — oh ! come with me. My lovely Lucy Gray !" Sensations sweet his words impart — A flood of joy rush'd through her heart. That sigh'd his sway to own : — Now, by my harp ! hcfw love can wile ! For with the Knight of Holy Isle, Young Lucy Gray has gone ! Her soul was bound in Love's soft thrall. Her parents — friends — companions all. Remembered now no more. As with her gay heart- winning spark. She hurried on to reach the bark. That floated nigh the shore. Tlic beach was gained — but feai'ful sight The ocean scem'd ! — ;'t\vas noon of night, All silent as the grave ; Yet billows swell'd to mountains high. And lash'd the rocks eternally. That beetled o'er the wave ! THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 123 There, heaving on the foaming surge. Was seen the Warrior's stately barge. To ride right gallantly, 'Mid darkness dismal — though, in noon. From heaven's high arch a fiery moon Flamed o'er the yawning sea ! "Alas !" young Lucy trembling said, " Brave Knight, hast thou a helpless maid Deceived so far astray ! Ah, Warrior i will it pleasure thee. These wild and stormy waves to see Engulpliing Lucy Gray ?" " Why throbs thy bosom with alarm — Can aught a child of virtue harm ? Nay, fearful maiden, smile; For, by mine honour true I swear. No harm the gallant bark shall bear. That sails to Holy Isle !" ^' Good Knight, how can thy spirit brave, Thus smile upon that foaming wave. That terror gives to mine ?— 124 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. Thy rank is sure coneeal'd from me. For more than mortal dignity. Is on that brow of thine !*' His real name the Knight disclosed. And spoke — " NOw art thou discomposed, To sail the deep with me ?" The maiden blushed-T-her fears at rest — " Oh, Ariel !* tranquil is the breast Of all who sail with thee I" The barge was boarded. — But nor wave. Nor billow's swell, nor Warrior brave. Nor night, nor gloomy skies. The damsel witness'd more — for deep. And fastly in unbroken sleep. Were seal'd young Lucy's eyes. He robed her in a winding-sheet, And strewed her o'er with flowerets sweet ; Then, lightly from the bay Angel of Dcatl). THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 125 As bore the heaving bark along, He waked this loud ti'iumphal song O'er sleeping Lucy Gray : — Ariel's Ipong. Oh, I am a mariner bold, and brave To pilot the bark through a stormy sea ; They dread not the roll of the bounding wave, Nor shrink- at the billow, who sail with me ; For mine is the soothing slumber-spell. That lulls the bosom in tranquil rest ; — They hear not the rage of the tempest's swell. Who heave with me on the ocean's breast. Come ferry me, ferry me o'er the deep. Ye storms that ruffle the mortal main ; For the eyes that close in my dreamless sleep. Must never awake in the world again ! Oh, I am the union of friend and foe — One night with me, and they weep no morrow ! For I have a balm for every woe. And I have the cure for every sorrow : 126 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. The high or the low, are they sunk in grief? The young or the old, are they sad M'ithal ? Oh, I am their last and sure relief — I the physician who heals them all. Come ferry me, ferry me o'er the deep. Ye winds that eddy CoiTuption's wave ; For the heart I virn in my dreamless sleep. Must never be left ift the irksome grave. Oh, I am the lover so kind and true, That never in vain preferred a plea ; . Cold is my nuptial bed, I trow. But sweet is their rest, who rest with me : And I am the king whom kings obey. The monarch to whom must princes fall ; For mine is the sceptre of boundless sway. And I have the sword that conquers all ! Come ferry me, ferry me o'er the deep. Ye zephyrs that waft the eternal shore ; The eyes that wake from my dreamless sleep. Must never be closed in slumber more. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 127 The song was ended. — Lucy woke : Lo ! on her raptui*ed vision broke The land of life and peace ; — A splendid and celestial clime, Dazzling refulgently sublime. With beauty and with bliss ! Oh, there was happiness unknown To all, save only those who own Their home that region fair ; The grand arcana of delight Came flaring o'er the ravished sight. In vasty splendour there. Oh, there were thrones, and crowns of gold. And kings and kingdoms, all enrolled In beams of glory bright ; — There souls and seraphs moved in state. Flashing effulgence through the great Eternity of light ! And there were forms, and beings pure. Too much for stranger to endure The beauty of their smile ; i2 128 TPIE FAIRY MINSTREL. With worlds of loveliness untold — For language falters to unfold The charms of Holy Isle ! The bark moor'd in the haven — then A vast and beauteous cherub trainj On snowy wings drew near. To welcome Lucy into bliss, And life, and light, and happiness, . In that celestial sphere. Their eyes created gems around. Their breath with roses strewed the ground. Where'er they bent their way ; And aye they sang, with loving smile, " Thrice welcome to our Holy Isle — ** Thrice welcome, Lucy Gray !" They wreathed her brow with garlands sweet. Laced silken sandals on her feet. And framed her wings of snow; They clothed her in a robe of light. And girt licr with a girdle, briglit As noonday's sunniest glow. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 129 And now her cup of joy ran o'er. Sweeter than Hope e'er told before. Or Faith itself believed ; For Lucy saw and felt, I ween. What mortal eye hath never seen. Nor heart of man conceived ! Soon woke ten thousand harps of gold — The tide of heavenly music roU'd Wide through the realms of day ; And now, adorned with endless smile, Joined the high hymn of Holy Isle, Immortal Lucy Gray : — Awaken, awaken — ye heavenly throng. That banquet on pleasure forever and aye. Awaken, awaken the seraphim song. Whose truth as your glory is stable alway ; Oh ! hush not the harp in our regions of day. Be silent no tongue in our kingdom of souls. ISO THE FAIRY MINSTREL. For ours are the pleasures that never decay. We flourish while endless eternity rolls : Then swell the high chorus to happiness given. And ever sing glory — sing glory to Heaven ! Ours, ours are the crown and the sceptre of peace — The reign of delight that will never be bye ; Our nectar is drunk from the Fountain of Bliss, And ours are the bosoms that never can sigh: Oh, blest is the spirit and happy the eye. That catch but a glimpse of our heavenly shore ; And the mortal who comes to our home in the sky. The pangs of affliction can suffer no more ; For ours are the pleasures that fade not away — Oh ! swell the high chorus forever and aye ! This, this is the kingdom so splendid and bright. Which saints in their faith of futurity see ; And oh ! if the vision give sweetest delight. Then what must the bliss of reality be ! In mortals are valueless rank and degree, To bsckon our favour, if such be their meed ; Wc love but the heart from iniquity free. And the bosom we bless it is blessed indeed : THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 131 For ours are the pleasures that fade not away — Oh ! swell the high chorus fore\'er and aye ! And this is the land, where the good and the just. Who linger a while in their sorrows below. Shall come to inherit their hope and their trust, A boon that will joys never-ending bestow : Hei'e sorrows and trials no more shall they know — Here sickness and death shall encompass them never ; But robed in salvation, their bosoms shall glow With glory and gladness for ever and ever ; For ours ai'e the pleasures that fade not away — Oh ! swell the high chorus forever and aye ! So sang good Fairy Minstrel. Well, What sang the fairy hai-per more ? — Ah ! had it been a changeless spell That on my wandering spirit fell, I might have told as heretofore ; But things were altered now — for when Was hushed the Minstrel's harp again. And yet once more my wistful eyes Review "d the Bower of Paradise, 132 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. To meet the forms I wont to see. And feast my soul on beauty fair, There was — at least there seemed to me — A marvellous transition there ! For o'er the magic Bower of bloom There hang a mistiness and gloom. Dispensing dullness all around. And dimming with a darkish hue. The scene that ever to my view So fair in Fairyland was found. This change confused me much — I tried To waive my jealousies aside. But still ideas dark and drear, Show'd some eventful crisis near. I knew I might not — could not stay In happy Fairyland for aye ; And now with plodding mind sedate. Began to think of future fate. And what strange doom of destiny Perchance was in reserve for me ! — I know not how it was, but then There came a swimming o'er my brain, A mistiness across mine eye. My senses whirl'd confusedly, THE. FAIRY MINSTREL. 13i Moreovei', and a sudden smart Had nigh ensepulchred my heart ! But these were not of ills the whole That now began to tease my soul ; For, thus absorbed in doubt and fear, Lo ! something visible drew near. And clutch'd me like a spii-it ! This Was all unwont in Bower of Bliss : Thick throbb'd my heart — when, looking round, A tall Herculean form I found. Who thus exclaimed, in such a mood As omen'd me but little good :— " Ho ! erring moi'tal ! tell me why *' In Fancy's witching regions found ? '' Consult thy heart — and ne'er deny " Thou standest on forbidden ground.— " 'Twere better thou hadst been below, " And searching what 'tis good to know, " And learning well the lessons which " High Wisdom's shining pages teach, " Than running Folly's mad career, " And lingering in delusion here : 134 TPIE FAIRY MINSTREL. "But scan me well, and never doubt " Thine enemy has found thee out ! " For I am Fancy's sternest foe, " And sober Reason's dearest friend ; " Nor ever dealt a conquering blow " The soul who dared with me contend : " Then, mortal, here thou must not stay, " So haste, my high command obey, " And speed thee back to earth apace, " For this is not thy resting place !" Strange feelings moved my troubled breast. As on my ear this message broke : All unprepared for such behest, I paused and ponder'd — but at last Assumed a haughty air, and spoke : — " So ! — tell me. Spirit, whence thou art, And why thy province to command ? That thus thou canst afflict my heart. E'en in the courts of Fairyland. For I liave gladly tarried long In this delightful world of song, Wliich still, fell Spirit ! but for thee Had been a realm of joy to me. THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 135 Yea, I have listen'd legends here. Not all unmeet for human ear ; Ay ! and to me have truths been shown, 'Twere better some had sooner known! Then where is harm that I have chose To fly from world of care and grief, To this fair region of repose. Where best I might expect relief?" " Presumptuous mortal! tamper not, " Nor court from me severer lot. — " What ! wouldst thou choose to tarry here, " And hearken dreams of fabled song ? " What ! has become to thee so dear, " The charms of visionary throng ? — " While nobler truths on earth are sung, " That bind the heart in happier spell, " With sweeter sounds than ever fell *' From Fancy's harp, or Fairy's tongue. " Then get thee back to nether sphere — " If dearer joys thou hast not known " On earth, the fault is all thine own ; " But sooth I thou shalt not tarry here !" 1S6 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. " Spirit ! I cannot brook the thought. Albeit thou hast form'd it fair. And rather choose the present lot. Than seek again a world of care : So tell me not thy power and thrall^ But hear me. Spirit ! once for all— 'Twas Fancy brought me here, and now. By her own loveliness I vow. The hapless hero's doom to prize, "Who sinks in strife — the rather than Resign for thee one single span. Of Fancy's Bower of Paradise !" " Ha r lightlify my power and fame ! " And hast thou yet to learn my name ? *' Then, mortal, I am Conscience /——Come, " I'll grapple with thee !" I was dumb — O'crwhelmed — confounded with aiTriglit, And shrank inglorious from the fight ! But on advanced the Spirit bold. And grasped me in his frightful hold ; THE FAIRY MINSTREL. 137 I felt his power and sway divine. And dreading fearful doom was mine. My heart grew sick — my courage died. And, coward-like, at length I cried, " Ho ! Fancy, help I— cease. Spirit ! cease !'" Now would that I had held my peace.— For lo ! the very sound I made Dissolved the spell ! — and shape, and shade,. And Fairyland and Fay, 'Gan twinkle, twinkle from my view. Like planets-'mid the misty blue That swathes the infant day ! I look'd for Fancy ^ — she was gone ; For meddling Spirit — there was none ; And Fairy Minstrel, it would seem. While bathing in Parnassian stream Had drown'd himself in music ! — for, I saw nor harp nor Harper more. But 'stead the Bower of Paradise, Creation open'd on mine eyes — K 138 THE FAIRY MINSTREL. The sky — the land — the lake — the sea. Wrapt in the sweets of summer morn,- The white mists wavering o'er the lea. The warblers singing on each thorn. And 'stead of Fancy's visions gay. The glory of the king of day Upon my sight and senses fell; While every vestige of the spell Forsook my settled brain : I grieved not much — for well I wot. More vexing fate was nigh my lot ; But think ye if I marvelled not, To look on earth again ! END OF THE FAIRY MINSTUEL- TO BERTHA. And art thou wearied. Bertha ? — has thy heart Grown dull and heavy o'er the lengthen'd lay ? Nor can the Muse one 'livening thought impart. To charm thy listless drowsiness away ?— Yet must thou not resign to Morpheus' sway. Nor late thy taper dwindle paly beam ; For still, my Bertha, I have more to say. Though certes. Love, far other is the theme,. Than Fancy's fay- wove spell, or Fiction's airy dream* Arouse, my ftxir one ! trim thy lamp once more,. Shake off this listlessness, — and let there be Upon thy lip that smile that wont before To ever play so sweet and gracefully ; 140 TO BERTHA. How oft indulgence have I clalm'd from thee. Thou who hast still unwearying kindness shown ; Than whom a dearer friend ne'er smiled on me. And in whose love — though blest with tlihie alone^ My soul forgets her woes, and lightsomely lives on. And hast thou heard my Fairy Minstrel's song. And hast thou seen my elfins, fair and bright ?^ But blame me not, if I alas ! too long Have wrapt myself in fancies, vain and light ; For oh ! 'tis sweet in visions of the night. When the soul wanders from her home of clay. To dream we've found a land of pure delight. And feast on happiness the live long day Where human cares and fears can come no more for aye I But dreams are onlif dreams. So let it be. The sleep-magician's midnight spell is o'er, x\nd sith I've 'waked to truthful love and thee. The misty things of Fancy charm no more : And I might here be happy as before. When charm'd and dazzled by her fairy spell ; But Discontentment, with invidious lore. TO BERTHA. Ul O'erspreads this earth with miseries dire and fell. Where care and woe, 'tis said, are ever doom'd to dwell. My heart grows sick to think it! — I must weep. To wash this heaviness of soul away ; For sorrow meets my wandering eye — and deep The lyre-strings tremble with a larum lay : Lo ! here the Vices stalk in stern array. With fell Destruction following in their train ; While, from Life's morn to Age's closing day, The Juggernaut of Sin drives on his wain. And o'er his hideous track strews wide the mangled slain. Come ! let us scan this Babylonian world, This thick-gi'own jungle of promiscuous souls. Where Satan hath his impious flag unfurled. And where of guilt the fearful torrent rolls : — See ! here in glittering pomp and luxvny lolls The God-denying mortal, bent on ill ; There, deep in crime, a low-bred menial strolls— The stout contemner of high Heaven's will. Who, oft reproved, remains a stern blasphemer still ! Here sits a king, and slays the men of God, Who dare with him in faith and feelings jar ; 14.2 TO BERTHA. Arul there the tyrant, whose ungracious nod Can kindle deadly Battle's scorching star. That summons thousands to the Almighty's bar ; Nor cares nor questions he, if bad or good ? The while his honourable " dogs of war" Lap up their gorgeous beverage of blood. And joyfully to Fame, wade through the reeking flood ! Here group the mean transgressors — thief and knave. Dark-browed assassin, planning mischief sure ; The fiend-like scourger of the low-born slave ; The famish'd miser — with his look demure. Well framed to grind the faces of the poor ; The jolly drunkard, foaming out his shame ; And Falsehood, aiming at sweet Virtue's flower; With thousand other ills of meaner fame. Which Slander grovels near, and owns the lowest name. Woes cease not yet ! — still cast thine eyes abroad. The wide extent of Life's far-stretching plain. And mark what legions bear the galling load Of care and sorrow — ^misery and pain : Here princes goi'ge in sensual joys, and then Pine 'noatli the burden they themselves have chose ; There in the dungeon clanks the wearying chain. TO BERTHA. 143 That rings responsive to the captive's woes. Perchance who sorrows on till death his sufferings close. Here, press'd with cares, a toil-worn mortal view In labour hard, till strength and spirits fail, Condemn'd by Poverty to struggle through The bushy thickets of Misfortune's vale; Hark ! there lone pilgrim tells a doleful tale, How still with ceaseless trials he must go^ And, as his own sad heart is never hale. Thus sums the heritage of man below. And notes the^ spacious world a lazar-house of woe ! And here Affliction spreads her baleful wings. That far and wide their damping influence shed. O'er beggar's hut, and palaces of kings, Till thousands languish on her sickly bed ; See, too, in deep and sable mourning clad, The widowed relative, lamenting sore Some friend's decease, and weeping o'er the dead — The blessed dead — that here can grieve no more. Nor dread the whelming surge that wreck'd their bark before ! k2 iU TO BERTHA. And now what thinks my Beiitiia ? — its not this A saddening tale to greet thy gentle ear ? Alas ! what lack of peace and happiness — What lavishment of pain and woe is here ! Yet still, methinks, thou wilt a little bear, Tho' saddening numbers from the harp-strings flow ; For sux-e 'tis well, while earth's our destined sphere^ To search our portion in the land below. And learn the slippery path o'ei* which our footsteps go. I know thou lovest me, thou kind-hearted one ! With more than sister's love, nor wilt deny To mourn with me where misery is known. And ope thine ear to Pity's moving cry : I know thy heart is sad when mine doth sigh But wherefore thus of distant woes complain ? Lo ! grim Despair himself is hastemng nigh, I feci his finger touch my shrinking brain ! Soon must I fall ! — Oh, Love ! how wilt thou sorrow then ? Wilt thou not weep, to see the dark controul Of blanching I'cmu'y this bosom mar .'' TO BERTHA. !4o Nor drop one tear to mark my weary soul Shook by the jolting of Misfortune's car — While bleak Adversity inflicts her scar. And grief o'er grief like foaming surges come — While Sorrow flares her flambeau red afar. Scorching the sweet green gourd of friends and home. And I throughout the world, a wandering outcast roam ? Wilt thou not weep, when o'er my hapless head Lowers big and black the thunder-cloud of doom ; When sickness hovers round my dying bed. To pine this liealthy frame with wasting gloom. And rob the living tenants of the tomb, (Ungracious revellers !) of half their cheer ; While pleasure's flowers for me no longer bloom, And fast the dreaded hour is di'awing near. That terminates my day of sad sojourning here ? Wilt thou not weep, when on Corruption's cJiai't Thy pitying eye shall mark my name enroll'd ; Wlien o'er this now full kind and faithful heart The lazy reptile trails each clammy fold ; When this warm bosom shall be cliill and cold. Its former hopes and fears remembering not ; 146 TO BERTHA. When, pent and shrouded in my narrow hold^ Even Bertha's very self I'll have forgot. While rank weeds gaily wave above my slumbering spot ? Yes ! nature's weakness and soft-hearted love The tribute due to Sympathy must pay: — But hush repinings ! — why so blindly rove. To waste our strength 'neath Melancholy's sway 1 What ! Bertha ! — boots it that we fret alway. And whinge eternal curses on our care ? Or boots it we should grieve from day to day, • . Forever whining sorrow and despair ?— Has Gilead got no balm ? — Is no Physician there ? Yes ! there is balm^there a Physician too. To heal the sick, the blind, the halt and raaim'd: — Who is this great and high Physician — who ? For nations languish till they hear him named : We may perchance by sceptic fools be blamed. To sound the sacred mystery abroad — Ay ! — but I'll speak it ! — shall we be ashamed To own the Prince of Life ! whose heart-drops flow'd To wash our sins away, and seal our peace with God •' TO BERTHA. 147 And rests our faith on His exalted name ? — ■ If true, this truth is blessedness indeed ; This is the light that kindles virtue's flame. Is all we wish or want — is all we need ; This is the cord that binds the broken reed. The conquering sword, that shines in triumph grand ; The anchor sure, when darkly over-head The waves of tribulation wide expand ; And the great shadowing Rock that glads this weary land. .Let cold Privation's withering hand invade. And club her famished myrmidons around. This is the saint's surrounding palisade. That bars their entrance on forbidden ground ; Let Sickness, too, inflict her deadliest wound. And Trouble all his wasting horrors spread. This is the dew that flowers the barren ground. That pours fresh balm upon the sufFerei;'s head. And softens into down Affliction's thorniest bed. Yea, let himself the King of Terrors come. Ghastly apparelled for the dreadful fight ! 148 TO BERTHA. This is the hope that mitigates our doom. And blunts the poison'd arrows of his might ; That bids the victim bravely holla — " Smite !" While his glad soul, unshackling from her clay. Big with importance^ and in triumph dight, Wings o'er the Almighty's path-way — lives in day. And flouts with victor-smile the stern avenger's sway ! Who told me earth no smile of beauty wore ? That here no flowers of bliss may ever bloom?— Well — let us turn and view the world once more, I long to see this great Gomorrah's doom ? *But, are none righteous ?— will the fire consume. Nor slack devouring for good fifty's sake ? Say forty ? — thirty ? — or to twenty come ? — Nay, peradventure ten may save the wreck. Appease Heaven's wrath, and turn the fiery deluge back? TcJi! say ye. Lot? — well, here are number'd ten Who worship not the idols of the land ; Ten — ay ! and thrice ten thousand righteous men. See 'neath their Saviour's silken banners stand ! "" Genesis, xviii. 24. TO BERTHA. 149 Behold how lovingly they, hand in hand, On Life's far march move happily along ! Together link'd by love's endearing band, Joy in each heart — each tongue enrich'd with song. While Peace extends her wings wide o'er the heavenly throng. The world seems nov/ Devotion's hallowed place. Where men are v/alking in the fear of God : — But where have vanish'd yon rebellious race, I late beheld in Babel's dark abode ? Whence hath- the foul blasphemer gone abroad ? The war-king and his followers, where are they ? The tyrant and his desolating rod. The red assassin, lurking for his prey. The liar, thief, and all — whence have they bent their way? Lo ! they have perish'd like the crackling thorn. And shrunk to nothing in Religion's fire ; The flood of light from her resplendent morn Hath swept their dwelling from its site of mire } And, like the phoenix from her loathsome pyre^ Up from their dust new generations spring. 150- TO BERTHA. Who, with then- body, spirit, and desire. Their hearts an offering to liigh Heaven bring. And build their happy homes beneath Salvation's wing. But saw I not, in dull Misfortune's vale, A group of mourners ? — whither have ihey gone ? The man of Want, chlll'd with her frosty gale — And the sick heart long to Affliction known ; The weary pilgrim, ever wandering on With clouds and tempests lowering o'er his head ; And Sorrow's children sighing sad and lone, Or weeping o'er the unforgotten dead — Such rank I lately saw — but whither have they fled ? Oh ! now they've found relief from every woe. And pitch'd their tents in Virtue's fair domain : The poor man here lias ample wealth, and lo ! No prince nor beggar e'er are heard complain ; The toil-worn pilgrim quits his load amain ; The suffering invalid shakes off distress ; The mourners see their dead revive again. And rise from sleep their longing eyes to bless ; While all together live in harmony and peace. TO BERTHA. 15T Then tell me not of boundless soitow now. Say not there is no happiness below ; I feel my heart grow merry, and my brow Relax its wrinkles ! — Hope with sunny glow. Dispels the brooding mists of cloudy woe. And a fair Goshen greets my ravish'd sight ; Peace and Contentment all their glories show. Faith, Meekness, Love, and Temperance, unite ;■ And the wide world becomes a Canaan of delight. Oh 1 that our hearts may ever follow those, Who flaunt the banners of the Christian faith I See ! how all gloriously that phalanx goes. Blest while in life, and undismay'd at death ! See ! wafted gently by Religion's breath. The barren earth a fruitful vineyard seems ; The scene presents a paradise beneath ; With love and joy the whole creation teems. And on m.y raptured sight one grand millenium beams I Away with Fancy's dreams and fictions now ! This scene excels her worlds of loveliest bloom -^ And well I know my Bertha's blessed too. To taste the sweetness of its rich perfume : — 152 TO BERTHA. Oh ! may its splendour still our souls illume. And true devotion in our hearts abound. Till the great Dresser of the Vineyard come ; Lest being barren and vmfruitful found. His sword shall cut us down as cumberers of the ground ! But have I tired thy patience — spent thy time — Till Love itself is fain to be away. By harping long the notes of serious rhyme. To wile thy heart from Mirth's delusive sway ? — Forgive me. Bertha ! — sooth I might be gay. And smooth the song with adulations vain ; But well thou know'st I scorn the Flatterer's lay. Who barters Truth blind ftxvour to obtain. Or win some gaping fool to laud his worthless strain. I might have talk'd of beauty, vowed of love. And sported lightsomely at Folly's sln-ine — Have praised thy charms all others' charms above. And for thy goodness pictured thee divine : But what avails the banquet and the wine, When the poor prodigal hath spent his all ? Alas ! he feeds upon the husks of swine. TO BERTHA. IbS And drinks of keen remorse the bitter gall — No man to give him bread — no friend to mourn his fall ! 'Tis surely better to endure a shower A little portion of the summer day. To wet the soil, and to refresh the flower. Than bask for ever in the sunny ray. Till foliage withers from the paixhed clay : — Yes ! better leave earth's pleasures for a time. And cast our load of worldly toys away. The lightlier Z ion's steepy mount to climb. And reach perpetual joy upon her heights sublime. Our Jiome in Zion ! — what desire we more ? What more require of riches, honour, fame ? Our home in Zion !—\eX. the strain be o'er. For this obtain' d, no fxrther goes its aim : So high in hope I quit the pleasing theme. — Come, Bertha, haste Ave to that dwelling fair; The mean despiser may our choice disclaim. And the rude mocker enmity declare. But scorn, or sceptic's blame, shall ne'er molest us there. L 154 TO BERTHA. And noWj my loved one ! that the King of Peace May bend our hearts to his Almighty sway. And richly clothe us with the robes of grace. While here on earth ; — when call'd from earth away. That we may meet our Judge without dismay. And ever with the great Redeemer dwell — Shine in the realms of everlasting day. And the eternal song of triumph swell — is my most fervent wish ! — Sweet Bertha, fare thee well ! I0j^tniiwjriiiii0 puew^ MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. A DREAM. ' I had a dream ■which m as not all a dream."— Byron. PwAS night's still noon — and gloomy Darkness spread Her sable mantle o'er the face of heaven ; No moon was in the sky, and the bright stars Withheld their sparkling lustre ; the black clouds That vell'd the sky, no scanty vista left Through which the eye some lieavenly orb might trace. To tell there was a firmament. All still And silent wai$, for Labour had retired From busy toil, to rest in Morpheus' arras. And Silence reign'd amid the awful gloom. 158 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS; No wonted object met the cheerless eye. Nor zephyr's breath, nor human voice was heard. That might convince the ahuost doubting mind That earth existed still. It seem'd as though Sweet Life had changed her residence, and I Had been forgotten when the earth was swept Of every living being — or perchance, I had been there a child of some strange birth. Bred in the womb of Chaos ! Thus alone. Awhile I gazed on blackness ; but at last Dull Sleep drew slowly near, and safely lock'd Bright Reason in her cell ; then wandering Thought, That never owns controul, had ample scope To range about in Fancy's boundless space. Where nothing seems impossible — and soon Perceiving Sleep had bound the mortal parti She spread her wings, and gladly soar'd away. I dream'd a dream : —Methought the summer sun Sublimely rose, with all his glorious light. Diffusing gladness o'er the happy land. And Nature smiled beneath his radiant glow. I stood admiring, while the fragrant earth Exhaled sw«et clouds of odour, and the song:, MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 159 Which Nature's minstrels sung, thrill'd thro' my soul Like electricity. But wondering thus^ I had not long remained t' enjoy the scene. When some transporting spirit bore me up, I thought half way to heaven, and placed me ou A lofty cloud, where, void of every fear, I like some god look'd down upon the earth. And view'd the ample landscape. The broad sea. Like a vast lake of fire, in silence lay ; The woods and forests — the green fields and lakes— The mountains — rivers — the abodes of men — With one wide glance were all distinctly seen.- The husbandman toil'd in the field — the flocks. And numerous herds on mountain and on lawn. Fed on their blooming pasture all in peace. While Time turn'd round his everlasting wheel* I gazed a while upon the charming scene,. Which earth in all her loveliness displayed. Till tired and sick with the excess of bliss : Then turning up, to gaze upon the sky. Those eyes already sated with delight. The scene was changed, and soon new wonders follow 'd: l2 160 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. For lo ! the trembling heavens were rift in twain. And from a golden cloud, in glorious light, A mighty angel came, whose visage seem'd More dazzling bright than the meridian sun. Descending down to earth, one foot he placed Upon the sea, the other on the land ; Then from his belt a brazen trump he took. And blew a blast which filled the world with awe ! Then were the eyes of every living thing Litently fix'd on him — none moved nor spoke. Nor dared to look his fellow in the face. But all stood silent, as if every heart Were conscious of the dread impending doom. 'Twas but a moment thus men wondering stood. For ere the echo of the trumpet's breath Had died away among the caves of earth. The great archangel raised his hand to heaven. And sware by Him — by Him who lives forever. That Time should be no more ! A suddeJi pause That instant followed. — The bright sun stood still. The rivers ceased to flow — the foaming cataracts. As if congealed into the hardest rock. Hung o'er the awful precipice sublime. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. l6l Unbroken aud unmoved. All nature changed^ And in the transient twinkling of an eye Destruction ruled the universe ! The stars Fell down from heaven — the moon became as bloody And, with the sun, down to the earth was east ! The world was in a blaze, and nought escaped The general conflagration : for the rocks. The rocks of adamant, were melted down. And blazed like goodly fuel. Burning mounts. That had for ages awed the world, raked up Their fiery entrails, and with tenfold rage Belched forth their burning lava ! But, ere long. They fell to ashes in the general wreck Of all created things ; and heaven and earth. And rocks, and seas, together soon became One mass of fire, and like a troubled sea. With horrid waves boil'd a tempestuous flame ! The dead came forth, who had for ages slept In the cold cave of Death, and unconsumed They walk'd amid the spacious world of fire ! Happy was I, methought, thus placed above The reach of these dread flames ; for on the cloud,. On which the seraph placed me, still I stood. And viewed, unhurt, the mighty conflagration. 162 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. At last fear shook my limbs, — I turn'd me round To look whereon my dubious safety stood. When lo ! above the flaming gulf I saw- Legions of angelsj with bright crowns of gold. Descend from heaven, and range their glittering rows Close on the burning world— and in the midst A great white throne was set. Its splendor seem'd To darken Light itself; and full in view Of all the then assembled worlds it stood. I knew 'twas it on which the Eternal sat. For all the bright celestial hosts around, Bow'd down before the throne,, and Judgment there Sate with the beam of Justice in his hand ! The books were open'd — and all heaven stood mute And seem'd to listen, till the righteous Judge Pronounced the general doom ! I gazed awhile With fear and admiration. And at last, I ventured to look up, to view the source From whence the rays of such bright glory came. That shone refulgent on the heavenly throng ; But ah ! my godlike strength proved human still, For ere mine eyes liad caught one glimpse of Him Who sat upon the throne, a sudden flash Of piercing brightness from Omnipotence^ MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. l63 That instant smote me blind. It closed those eyes- That could have gazed unhurt upon the sun, And seem'd to laugh at blindness ! Sudden fear Then seized my trembling soul — and shrinking back In wild confusion from the vision'd scene, I burst the bands of Sleep. My senses came. My reason was restored, and soon I found Myself on earth, all trembling in my couch ; I moved — I spoke — and found it was a Dream* REFLECTIONS ON THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE NEW YEAR. " My song is sad, for I have heard The steps of the departing year." — Leyden Again triumphant Time hath winged his flight Round the vast circle of another year ; And still, on pinions of immortal might. He speeds the circuit of his swift career; No foe so terrible — no friend so dear. As mar his progress, or ensure his stay ; 164 MISCELLANEOUS POBSlS, On, on he flieSj the monarch of his sphere. Resistless — reckless — boundless in his sway. Unwearied — unrestrain'd — on, on he wings his way. Go to, we'll scan the desolated path O'er which the Conqueror hath bent his flight. There, midst the woes of Life and wrecks of Death, How brooks the heart that soul-confounding sight ? There, in the mansions of eternal night. How many much-loved friends are slumbering low ! Alas ! and hoAV one little year can blight The fondest hopes and dearest joys we know. And wake, where Zephyr sigh'd, the whirlwind of our woe. Look o'er the wider range of human care, Where Battle rages, or where billows swell, How hath the hand of Time been busied tliere. To people Heaven, or crowd the gates of Hell ! And let the groaning earth her millions tell. All levell'd with one desolating sweep : Distinction shrouded in Corruption's cell — Ah, me ! how sound and peacefully they sleep. Blent with the dust of death, in one promiscuous heap ! MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. lC;i But why -with heavy retrospect intrude. When clamorous mirth is heard on every side ? Why rake Oblivion's settled solitude For scenes Forgetfulness so fain would hide ? Come, throw your serious saddening thoughts aside. We'll hail the new-born year with merry lay ; Let light wing'd Pleasure be alone our guide. To chase the vexing cares of life away— Sorrow will have her time — we'll shun her while we may. Fill up the bowl ! ye jovial sons of Mirth ! Fill up the bowl ! and drink it — drink it deep ; Give to the bounding soul of Friendship birth — To-morrow we can double vigils keep : There is a time to laugh, as well as weep. Then fill the bowl, and drain the social glass. Till the drunk spirit staggers into sleep. And her inishackled frame to all excess. May revel, uncontroll'd, in one sweet hour of bliss ! The night has pass'd as blithe as did the day ; Another morning sun is beaming bright : Awake, my friend, we'll yield to Pleasure's sway. And follow on our coui'se of tried delight : W6 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS.' What ! are you leagured with some damning sprite. That shivering thus you droop your head so low ? You seem'd in heaven but only yesternight- Hast thou relapsed back to a world of woe. As that blanched cheek of thine, and sunken eye would show ? You were the merriest at the merry ball, And seem'd the happiest in the bright saloon ; The first and last to grace the festival ; But how hath Sorrow found thee out so soon ?— Alas I I knew 'twas but the fiery noon Of Drunkenness, that dazzled o'er the scene ; And now thy sober'd soul hath left her swoon. To find a sicken'd heart, and joyless mien. And only minds the past, to wish it ne'er had been. If that be all your pilfered happiness. And this the woeful restitution be — No forced affection, lavish'd to excess. No jovial friend — no midnight bowl for me. Out on your worthless dupes of Revelry ! Out on your joys that give to sorrow birth ! For sooth I hate that liidden blasj^hcuiy MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. m That lurks beneath intoxicated earth. To compromise the soul, for one wild hour of mirtli. Come down, thou red-eyed Bacchanalian god ! , And chide me that my words have been unsmooth : May I not hate the Drunkard's black abode ? Yea, I will curse it in my heart forsooth ; For I have seen the comely-favour'd youth. Who once was blest 'neath Virtue's kind controul. For him forsake the happy paths of Truth, And, step by step, advance to Bacchus' goal. Until the foul Archfiend had gain'd another soul. But let them laugh — their time will come to mourn ; And oh ! my heart is weary of the strain. — Back to the haunts of Solitude I turn. Back to the map of Memory again. To cool the madness of a fever'd brain. And stop the progress of a worthless lay : Is it not foolishness to talk in vain ? Or try to league with their besotted clay. Whose ears are dull to hear, whose hearts are far away ? 168 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 'Tis surely wise to cast a look behind. Where Memory spreads her catalogue of care — Where Time and Fate^ and Life and Death, combined. The grandeur of Omnipotence declare ! What though our perish'd friends are scatter'd there. We are no fools of Chance, that woiUd repine. For where the sword of Fate is oftest bare. There heavenly Hope is beaming most divine. As in the darkest cloud the bow will brightest shine. And add we up the sum of grief below. That makes this world a weary wilderness. Will not the cumbrous load of human woe Be far outbalanced with eternal bliss ? — What say ye. Atheist ? Do ye sneer at this ? Wilt iJiou presume to doubt the truth averred ? Slink to thy hole, thou worm of nothingness ! Back to that chaos which thou hast preferred. And rot ye with the beasts, eternally interred ! O Thou, Omnipotent ! with whom alone Remains the full reward of Good and Crime, In Virtue's path do thou preserve thine own. Till call'd from earth to that celestial clime MISCELLANEOUS: POEMS. I6y Whei'e, in thy courts immortally sublimej With endless gratitude they'll hymn thy praise. And shine triumphant o'er the wrecks of Time, When Thou hast terminated years and days, And wrapt thy million worlds in one almighty blaze ! STANZAS ON VISITING THE RUINS OF CARLAVEROCK CASTLE.* Illustrious fortress ! once the pride of kings. What ancient splendour doth thy wreck display ! Still to thy walls some royal vestige clings That shows the glory of thy former day ; * Carlaverock Castle stands in the parish of the same name, about nine miles south from Dumfries, on the north shore of the Solway Frith, between the confluenee of the rivers Nith and Locher. This Castle is said to have been originally founded in the sixth ecntury by Lewarch Ogg, son of Levvareh Hen, a famous British poet, and after him to have been called Caer Lewarch Ogpr, which in the Gallic signified the city or fortress of LeMareh O^g— since corrupted to Caerleverock : but whether the word " Caer" -was ever used to signify a fortress, is by some held questionable; and it does not appear there was ever anything liVe a city founded on the spot alluded to.— Caerleverock Castle was the chief seat of the family of Max^vcll, in the days of King Malcolm Canmore, as appears from an ancient pedigree of that family, in the possession of Captain Riddell of Glen-Riddell, F.S.A. wherein Eugln M 170 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. But now, alas ! thy strength must fade away, (Ah ! reckless Time, what hast thou here been doing?) Yet thou art lovely even in decay. And while I stand thy hoary grandeur viewing, My soul is charm'd with thee — all hail, thou stately ruin I Yes, still there is a princely look displayed In thy lone walls, and yet a noble mien ; What though thy former grandeur be decayed. In what thou art we see what thou hast been. Maxwell, of Caerleverock, is said to have been at the siege of Alnwick with that King in the 26th year of his reign, A. d. 1097; it continued ever since in that family, till it passed by an heiress. Lady Winifred Maxwell, in marriage to Hagerston Constable, Esq. to whose family it now belongs. Like most other buildings of the same kind, Caerleverock Castle has passed through a variety of fortunes, and appears to have been once re-built, and several times repaired. The present Castle, like the old one, is triangular, and surrounded by a wet diteh ; it had a large round tower on each angle : that on the east is demolished ; that on ;the western angle is called Murdoc's Tower, from Murdoc, Duke of Albany, having been confined there. The entrance into the Castle yard lies through a gate on the northernmost angle, machicoUated a:id flank- ed by two circular towers. Over the arch of the gate is the crest of the Maxwells, with the date of the last repairs, and this motto, *' I bid ye fair." The residence of the family was on the east side, which mea- sures 123 feet. It is elegantly built, in the style of James VL and has three storeys, the doors and window-cases handsomely adorned with sculpture; over those of the ground floor are the coats of arms and ini- tials of the Maxwells, and the dilli'rent branches of that family; over the windows of the second storey arc rcjircscntationsof legendary talesj and over the third, fables from Ovid's Metamorphoses; and in the front is a handeonie doorcase leading to the great hall, which is 91 feet by 26. •oVide " C»ot>'t Anti At the bottom of Criffel, on the north-east side, is Loch-Kindiir — a fine sheet of water about two miles in cirrumference, and celebrated for the excellence of its trout. In the middle of this I.och is a small island, where the ruins of a parisli church, or some such building, may still be traced ^ and village tradi- tion feigns or fables, that, on a clear day, the boys can still discern the remains of an ancient hamlet shining at the bottom of the water. A little beyond this stands New-Abbey, one of the finest ruins in the South of Scotland, together with the sweetly-rural village that bears the same name. This Mas a Cistertian Abbey, founded in the beginning of the 13th century by Dcvorgilla, daughter of Allan Lord of Galloway,, niece to David, Earl of Huntingdon, and mother of John Baliol King of Scotland. Her Husband, John Baliol, Lord of Castle-Bernard, died in 1260, and Andrew Winter, Prior of Lochleven, informs us that the Lady Devorgilla caused his heart to be taken out and embalmed ; and putting it into an ivory box bound with enamelled silver, inclosed it solemnly in the walls of the chiu-ch, near tiie high altar, fron) whence it was occasionally styled Sweetheart Abbey (See Grose's Tour.J On the Newabbey side of Criffel, and in the very bosom of the surrounding heights, rises what is called the Glen-Hill— a hill of no inconsiderable altitude, but which appears quite diminutive when contrasted with the gigantic Criffel. In the year 181."), a few gentlemen residing in and about Newabbey, including the late andpresent minister, Robert John- stone, Esq. Mr Stewart of Shambelly, Mr Riddelx. of Kinharvey, ice. &c. 174 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. And now, on the mountain of mountains I stand. On the throne of the clouds, in the midst of the ether. And see, far below, the rich valleys expand, And bleak Caledonia's blue mountains of heather. How fair here to view the broad Solway asleep. Where the ensigns of Commerce their gay sheets unfold. All gliding serene o'er the face of the deep. Which the sunbeams have changed to an ocean of gold ! The bright svimmer clouds, and the blue vaulted sky. Reflect in the mirror a heaven entire. That seems as if Fancy had drawn to the eye, A magnificent scene, on a furnace of fire ! conoeived the bold idea of crowning the Glen-Hill with a monument in honour of the Battle of Waterloo. The site chosen for such a struc- ture of course added to the difficulty and expense of the undertaking; but in the art of overcoming difficulties the founders seemed to be ani- mated with tiie spirit of tliose heroes whose prodigies of valour they wished to commemorate. In a few months, therefore, the Monument was completed, and now forms a pleasing addition to the romantic scenery of Newabbey. It is a fine spiral building, composed of white granite or nioor-stonc, with an appropriate inscription on the outside, and an internal winding staircase to its summit; and is the first Mo- nument, of any description, that was erected in honour of the moat i(nportaut Battle in modern times. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 175 I look at the foot of the mountain again. Where the flocks, small as grasshoppers, feed on the lea. And behold the broad lake — the delight of the scene. Whose light waves are sparkling like gems of the sea. But ah ! fair Loch-Kindar, though lovely thou art, I leave all thy beauty without e'er a sigh ; For thou smilest deceitfully — like a false heart— A city engulph'd in thy bosom doth lie ! I turn, and the Abbey's vast ruins I view. That once towered aloft in its grandeur sublime ; But ah ! 'tis forsaken and desolate now, A prey to the woeful destructions of Time. Aye ! it is forsaken ; — the Cross is mislaid. The candies burnt out, and the priests left the dome. And the worshippers rest in the house of the dead — The dust is their bed, and the grave is their home. To a neighbouring mountain I nov/ turn mine eye. Where, piled on its summit, a pillar of Fame Stands high and majestic, embracing the sky. And " Peace to the World" it seems to proclaim. M 2 176 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. Hail ! Waterloo Monument ! — gladly I turn From the charms of the land, and the lake, and the sea. To contemplate thy worth, while my bosom doth bum To think of the valour recorded by thee. And when generations to come shall be told How their brave predecessors laid Tyranny low. The young shall rejoice, and the breasts of the old With fresh animation and vigour shall glow. Farewell, lofty spire I I must leave thee at last. But with deep veneration from thee I depart ; Long, long mayst thou brave the tornado's wild blast. To record what is dear to the Patriot's heart. And Criffel, farewell — for Vm now fully blest With all the delights my ambition pourtrayed ; And the toil I endured in ascending thy breast. By the charms of the landscape is amply repaid. Oh ! still may the land thou o'erlookest be free. While a fountain shall spring, or a river shall flow ; And may Friendship and Liberty, lofty as thee. Be lasting and deep as the ocean below ! MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 177 ON THE DEATH OF THE REVEREND JOHN DUNN.* •• Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth: Vea, saith the Spirit, tiiat they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them." — Revelation, xiv. 13. Why hast thou vanish'd, thou Spirit of Light ! And left us, in darkness and sorrow, unblest? Why hath thy sun, so refulgently briglit. In the zenith of glory sunk down to its rest ? * Of the late Mr John Dvx.v, Minister of the Independent Chapel of Dumfries, it may be truly said, that a more pure, pious, and disinter- ested character never adorned the narrow sphere in which Pj-ovidence had fixed his lot. In the world, the ex])ression " Here lies an honest man," is sometimes regarded as the ne plus ultra of praise ; but Mr Dunn was something more than this ; yes. Reader, he was a Christian —a ternx which, when properly applied and rightly interpreted, com- prehends every degree of excellence that is compatible with human frailty. His talents, if not brilliant, were at least solid and useful ; and in the pulpit nothing could exceed the mild tranquillity, and sober ear- nestness of his manner. Anxious only for the edification of his hearers, he indulged in no flowery and ainbitious rhetoric ; but his preaching possessed one quality which has often little connection with the riiost dazzling eloquence — his heart was in his words. In private life Mr Dunn was every thing that is amiable and excellent ; cheerful iu his tempei", and unobtrusive in his manners; anxious above all things to advance the interests of the Redeemer's Kingdom ; and evincing in his own person a winning example of zeal without bitterness, and strict- ness without austerity. The human mind was the soil he delighted to cultivate, and the inhabitants of Dumfries are still profiting by the stimulus which his exertions gave to the whole system of charitable 17S MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. And why hast thou chosen the cold house of death. And the hollow, lone sound of a funeral knell. For the love-kindling glow of Affection's warm breath. And the greetings of brethren who loved thee so well ? Ah ! thou answerest nothing ! — profound is that sleep That can hear no intruder, and knoweth no morrow ! And cold are those feelings that wake not to weep. At the teai's of distress, or the pantings of sorrow ! The dark pall of death hath enshrouded the heart. That late with affection so fervently glow'd ! And mute is the voice that was wont to impart The balm of relief, like an angel of God I But thy spirit is gone to the mansions of bliss. The seraph of Mercy hath ended thy woes ; Nor the voice of a friend, nor the plaint of distress^ Shall wake thee again from thy lasting repose. instruction. The sensation excited by his death— which happened on the 29th of February, 1820— among all ranks in this town, and the nu- merous and respectable band of mourners that followed his remains to the Brave, fully proved that his worth Mas known and appreciated; and as far us regards his own congreKation, it is not too much to say, that the members universally seemed to feel— the young as if they had lost an indulgent parent, and the old as if they had been bereft of »■ favourite child. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 179 All' loved thee sincerely — none whispev'd of blame; Thy heart and thine actions were pure and upright ; And the orphan and helpless, thou wert unto them Like a pillar of fire in the darkness of night. How swift were thy feet in the message of Zion ! How bright were thy counsels — how meek thy controul !' Thy tidings of peace, their rich blessings supplying. Were life to the bosom, and light to the soul ! But thy voice, faithful Shepherd ! no more shall be hailed In the midst of thy flock, at the folding of even; Nor the light of that Wisdom by thee be unveiled. That beam'd to the heart with the glories of Heaven. Yet tho' hush'd are those accents, and mute is that tongue That sprinkled sweet dews on the vineyard of God, The music shall tlirill though the harp be unstrung. And the Minstrel hath gone to his narrow abode. Thy name, with our warmest affections enwove. In the visions of Memory shall still be caressed. And tears of regret, of remembrance, and love. Like incense shall cover the place of thy rest. 180 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. But why should we weep at the Christian's decease ? He reposes where sorrow shall visit him not — He rests from his labours — he slumbers in peace — In the land of forgetfulness all is forgot ! Then sleep on, blessed saint ! all thy trials are past ; We mourn not thy fate, though thy loss we deplore. For lo ! thou hast reach'd the glad Canaan of rest. Where sickness and death shall assail thee no more. THE SABBATH SCHOOL. The Sabbath School— delightful theme! Oh, for a seraph's harp of gold. To sweetly liymn that sacred name. And all its heavenly worth unfold ; For lo ! its charms, more fair and briglit Tlian tinselled worlds of Fancy's wand. Come flooding o'er my raptured sight. Like sunbeams, glorying all the land ! MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 181 What do I see ? — I see not kings In War's triumphal chariot hurl'd. Applauded till the welkin rings. For nobly slaughtering half the world : I see nor lords, nor princes high. With gorgeous robe, and glittering gem. Nor splendid groups of Revelry — No ! — men have heard enough of them. What do I see ? — I see the sun Set mildly on a Sabbath even. Ere yet the Church's song has done With echoing through the vault of heaven ; And wide o'er all the Christian land. Where'er a hamlet's smoke is seen, I mark, for purpose high and grand, A host of infant souls convene. They seek not wealth, nor Fame's abode. No, no! — the young assembly meet To learn the righteous laws of God, And worship at their Saviour's feet ; And hark ! through all the listening sky Their heaven-taught anthem floats along, 182 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. While every breeze that wanders bye. Sighs sweetly to their Sabbath song : — " 'Tis Sabbath eve — and we have met To learn the ways of peace and love ; And we will ask, and we will get A blessing from the God above : And we will curse and swear no more. Nor lie, nor swerve from Virtue's rule, But hate the sins Ave prized before. And love the holy Sabbath School. *' Ye parents, send your children here. Nor slight a cause so great as this. For Jesus bids your babes draw near. And will ye keep them back from bliss ? And fathers, come ! — and mothers, come ! Who ne'er the Way of Life have known ; For, journeying to our heavenly home. The child shall lead the parent on ! "And while we tread the flowery road That leivds to climes of endless day, MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. I S3 Come help us, all ye men of God, Oh ! help us on our heavenly way. Think not your love shall be unblest ; The Eye that sleeps not marks your ways — t The bread ye on the waters cast Shall feed you after many days. " For we from hand to hand will pass The Word of Life — ^the Spirit's Sword, Till Babel cries " Alas ! alas !" And men begin to fear the Lord : And soon, in pomp sublimely grand. Will Virtue rule the hills and plains. While Echo shouts through all the land. The King — -the King of Glory reigns !" See ye what groups of lovely Youth Are here redeem'd from Satan's thrall. That else had miss'd the way of Truth, And Sin's dark waves o'erwhelmed them all ! Is this no scene of triumph brave — Is this no source of melting bliss ? Oh ! if a world one soul could save. Then would the cause of joy be less. 184 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. The Sabbath School — its fame shall rise Till land to land its blessings tell. While those who now the cause despise Shall blush to find it prospers well. Tlie Sabbath School — but is there found A man on earth to scoff its aim ? Is there a soul would dare to bound Its widening power, and stretching fame ? Arise, ye friends of Vii'tuc, then, Nor longer fear the strife — the toil, Arise, and 'quit yourselves like men. For great will be the victor's spoil : The hordes of Vice may muster well. And Belial's idols crowd the road. But they shall fall as Dagon fell. And bi'eak before the Ark of God ! Talk not of Truth's unequal strife. Though Sin's Goliath front liis van ; Your Buckler is the Word of Life, O Israel !--Twill ye quail for man ? No — wliet your swords — arise and slay ! Your foes shall sink on mount and dell. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. As wheiij on Midian's fated day. The God-contemning thousands fell ! Who is for Heaven ? — who is for Heaven ?- I see the sword of armies drawn ! But Zion's foes are backward driven. And melt like mist before the dawn. Who is for Heaven ? — the fight abounds. But Jacob's God will keep his vow ; Hark, how the clang of battle sounds !— Oh ! for the glorious triumph now ! THE SOLDIER'S FUNERAL. Saw ye that phalanx move solemn and slow With the sleeper that ne'er shall awaken ? Heard ye the loud lamentation and woe That the sons of the mighty were making ? How sadly sublime is the bugle's wild breath .' And how mournful the funeral train ! N 186 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. To prove that the Soldier is honour VI at death. Though he fall not to sleep with the slain. The helmet is vacant — the sable-clad horse Is woefully drooping his head. As if he were grieved for his rider's pale corse. And wept o'er the bier of the dead ! And the sword that erst gleam'd in the glory of strife. When the hosts were in terror arrayed. Is still, as a thing that is robb'd of its life. Or the arm which it never betrayed. But 'tis o'er ; — he who stood amid thousands that fell. Is a victim at last to the grave ; Tlie artillery's thunder is tolling his knell, To hallow the tomb of the brave. The shout of the battle no more shall awake him. Nor the echo of Liberty's breath ; For the camp and the field are forever forsaken — He has sunk in the slumbers of deatli ! MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 187 SONNET TO DEATHw Triumphant King of Terrors ! why art thou So stern and reckless 'mong the sons of men ? Say wilt thou nevei*, never have enow To glut the depths of thy unfathomed den ? Oh ! could we bribe thee with some glittering prize ! And yet, 'tis well none can thine arrows stay. Else would the tyrant gladly sacrifice Kingdoms and thrones, thy coming to delay. All, all alike thou humblest in the dust — The king is summon'd from his seat of pride. The smiling infant from its mother's breast. The blooming virgin from her lover's side ! And yet, O Death ! how weak is thy controul. When we contrast the worth of body and of soul 1 THE INFANT'S DREAM. Oh ! cradle me on thy knee. Mamma, And sing me the holy strain That soothed me last, as you fondly press'd My glowing cheek to your soft white breast 18a MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. For I saw a scene when I slumber'd last That I faha would see again. Mamma, That I fam would see again. And smile as you then did smile. Mamma, And weep as you then did weep ; Then fix on me thy glistening eye. And gaze, and gaze till the tear be dry ; Then roke me gently, and sing and sigh,, Till you lull me fast asleep, Mamma, Till you lull me fast asleep. For I dream'd a heavenly dream. Mamma, While sluiTfibering on thy knee ; And I lived in a land where forms divine In kingdoms of glory eternally shine. And the world I would give, if the world were mine. Again that land to see. Mamma, Again that land to see. I fancied we roam'd in a wood. Mamma, And wc rested us under a bough, When near us a butterfly flaunted in pride. And I chased it away through the forest wide» MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 189 But the night came on— I had lost my guide, And I knew not what to do. Mamma, And I knew not what to do ! My heart grew sick with tear, Mamma, And loudly I wept for thee ; But a white-robed maiden appear'd in the air. And she flung back the curls of her golden hair. As she kiss'd me softly ere I was aware. Saying, " Come pretty babe with me !" Mamma, Saying, " Come pretty babe with me !" My tears and fears she quell'd. Mamma, And she led me far away : — We entered the door of a dark, dark tomb. We passed through a long, long vault of gloom ; Then open'd our eyes in a land of bloom. And a sky of endless day. Mamma, And a sky of endless day ! And heavenly forms were there. Mamma, And lovely cherubs bright ; They smiled when they saw me, but I was amazed. And wondering, around me I gazed and gazed. 190 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. While songs were heard, and sunny robes blazed All-glorious in the land of light. Mamma, All-glorious in the land of light ! But soon came a shining throng, Mamma, Of white-wing'd babes to me ; Their eyes look'd love, and their sweet lips smiled. For they marvell'd to meet with an earth-born child. And they gloried that I from the earth was exiled. Saying, "Here ever blest shalt thou be, pretty babe? Oh ! here ever blest shalt thou be !" Then I mix'd with the heavenly throng. Mamma, With cherubim and seraphim fair; And I saw, as I roam'd in the regions of peace. The spirits who had come from this world of distress. And theirs wer/e the joys no tongue can express, For they knew no sorrow tliere. Mamma, For they knew no sorrow there ! Do you mind when sister Jane, Mamma, Lay dead, short time agone ; And you gazed on the sad, but lovely wreck. With a lull ilood of woe that you could not check. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 1<)1 And your heart was so sore that you "wish'dit would break. But it lived, and you aye sobb'd on. Mamma, It lived, and you aj'^e sobb'd on. But oh ! had you been with me. Mamma, In the realms unknown to care. And seen what I saw, you ne'er had cried Tho' they buried pretty Jane in the grave when she died. For, sliining with the blest, and adorn'd like a bride. My sister. Jane was there. Mamma, Sweet sister Jane was there ! Do you mind of the silly old man. Mamma, Who came late, late to our door. When the night was dark, and the tempest loud ?^ Oh ! his heart was meek, but his soul was proud. And his ragged old mantle served for his shroud Ere the midnight watch was o'er. Mamma, E'er the midnight watch was o'er. And think what a weiglit of woe. Mamma, Made heavy each long-drawn sigh. As the good man sate on Papa's old chair. While the rain dripp'd down from his thin grey hair, n2 192 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS, As fast as the big tear of speechless care Ran down from his glazing eye. Mamma, Rvai down from his glazing eye ! And think what a heavenward look, Mamma, Flash'd through each trembling tear. As he told how he went to the Baron's strong-hold. Saying, " Oh ! let me in, for the night is cold !" But the rich man cried, " Go sleep on the wold. For we shield no beggars here, old man ! We shield no beggars here !" Well, he was in glory too. Mamma, As happy as the blest can be ; He needed no alms in the mansions of light, For he mixed with the Patriarchs, clothed in white. And there was not a seraph had a crown more bright. Or a costlier robe than he. Mamma, Or a costlier robe tliaa he. Now sing — for I fain would sleep. Mamma, And dream as I dream'd before ; For sound was my slumber, and sweet was my rest. While my spirit in the kingdom of Hie was a guest. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 193 And the heart that has throbb'd in the climes of the blest Can love this world no more, Mamma, Can love this world no more ! THE MORN OF SPRING. -" These are thy glorious works, Parent of Good ! Almighty ! tliiiie the universal frame."— Milton. TiiE sable shades of gloomy night Far round the nether world are driven, And Morning's dazzling flood of light Bursts o'er the canopy of heaven. High in the vast infinite void. There's nought to mar the boundless view. Save now and then a fleecy cloud That beautifies the heavenly blue. Hush'd are the winter's angry storms. The withering winds have passed away, And Nature spreads her thousand charms Before the lovely light of day. igi MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. The dewy fields are glittering bright. On every spray the warblers sing ; — Oh ! all Creation's works unite To hail the smiling Morn of Spring ! The whispering zephyrs scarcely move The pearly dew-drop, passing by ; But steal a holy breath of love. Soft as the gentle lover's sigh. Emerging from the fragrant soil. The opening flowers rise wildly gay. And in the sunbeam's genial smile Their infant loveliness display. The blackbird whistles in the dell. And through the wood his notes resound. Sweet as the elfin harper's skill. Within the realms of Vision found. The little lark mounts up on high, His morning orisons to sing. And in the regions of the sky He hails the lovely Morn of Spring ! MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 195 Oh ! what a glorious sight to see Tlie power of Nature's high controul ! And what a cleptli of melody Steals softly o'er the wondering soul ! For every tiling, in sweet accord. Awakes thy holy praise to sing, Almighty King — Creation's Lord — God of the lovely Morn of Spring ! WRITTEN ON SEEING A SHIP SAIL FROM HARBOUR ON A FINE DAY. The tide is full — the sails unfurled — And now the ship hath cleai'ed the bay ; And lightly o'er the watery world. On snowy wings she glides away. The sea and sky are calm and fair. The wind and waves to rest have gone. 196 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. And, fluttering in the breathing air. How gloriously slie moveth on ! The heavens above reflect below, A noontide sky all dazzling bright ; While spai'kling in the sunny glow. The ocean seems a blaze of light. And onward on her course sublime. Now far from mountain, isle, and bay. The stately bark, like fleeting time. For ever moves away— away. Till lessening in the distant view. She seems a speck on ether borne. Then melts amid the hazy blue. Like dim star in the glow of morn. Heaven speed thy course, tliou happy bark ! While yet propitious is the gale ; For soon may lower the tempest dark. And soon the smiles of ocean fail. My following spirit seems to be A fellow-voyager of thine. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 197 And owns a kindred love for thee. So much thy path resembles mine. Thy sea is calm — thy sky is bright ; But shall the tempest sleep for aye ? And will the murky clouds of night No more eclipse the blaze of day ? Ah ! oft the fearful storm will rise From softest gales and sweetest air ! The thunder sleeps in fairest skies ; The deep may smile — but death is there I And oft like thee our path we find Beset with unsuspected foes ; For friends who seem at morning kind. Prove often false ere evening's close. Yet onward, through the changing scene. Our bark glides ever o'er the sea ; Till, far away, she melts within The dim mists of Eternity ! 198 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. SABBATH MORN. The sun is risen — and o'er the sky A radiant stream of glory flows. And 'heaven's own music' from on high Awakes creation from repose; And many a song of beings blest Is heard from brake, and tree, and thorn. To welcome in the day of rest — The sacred, solemn Sabbath Morn. With lovelier radiance o'er the world The king of morning seems to roll. While earth's fair robes are all unfurled. To bless the heart, and calm the soul : And milder beams the tinselled cloud. And softer hues the skies adorn. As if instinctive Nature bowed With reverence, to the Sabbath Morn. But see — to whom the scene is dear — The pious Christian walks abroad. To mark the wonders of our sphere. And ponder on the works of God : MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 199 *Tis he — for whom the loveliness Of nature's smile is still upborne, 'Tis he can taste the sacred bliss That sanctifies the Sabbath Morn. In joyful thought his mind is led Far through the shades of ages past. When many a patriarch eye surveyed With joy, the dawning day of rest ; When songs of praise were to the skies On clouds of smoking incense borne. And many a- holy sacrifice Perfumed the dawn of Sabbath Morn. Or when the blessed era came,. (Till then but darkly understood) That saw the altar's blazing flame Extinguish'd with Immanuel's blood ; When He who slept on death's cold bier. Rose from the gi'ave with power unshorn. And welcomed patriarch, saint, and seer. To hail the third day's Sabbath Morn. How dear unto the good man's heart The sweet remembrance of that day ! 200 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. A solemn joy it dc^h impart. And charms his worldly cares away ; To him a hallowed bliss is given His soul with meekness to adorn. While at the golden gates of heaven He hails the dawn of Sabbath Morn. Oh ! to unlock their pearly bars. The fountain-head of Bliss to find ! To glance like lightning through the stars. And leave this nether world behind ! To mix with that celestial throng. Whose light is Joy's unfading ray. And join the ever-blissful song Of an eternal Sabbath Day ! THE HARVEST MOON. All hail ! thou lovely Queen of Night, Bright Empress of the starry sky ! The meekness of thy silvery light Beams glachiess on the gazer's eye. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 201 Wliile from thy peerless throne on higb. Thou shuiest briglit as cloudless noon,. And bid'st tlie shades of darkness fly Before thy glory — Harvest Moon ! In the deep stillness of the night. When weary labour is at rest. How lovely is the scene ! — how bright The wood — the lawn — the mountain's breast, When thou, fair Moon of Harvest ! hast Thy radiant glory all unfurled. And sweetly smilest in the west. Far down upon the silent world. Dispel the clouds, majestic Orb ! That round the dim horizon brood. And hush the winds that would disturb' The deep, the awful solitude. That rests upon the slumbering flood. The dewy fields, and silent grove. When midnight hath thy zenith viewed,. And felt the kindness of thy love. Lo ! scattered wide beneath thy throne. The hope of millions, richly spread. 202 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. That seems to court thy radiance down. To rest upon its dewy bed : Oh ! let thy cloudless glory shed Its welcome brilliance from on high. Till hope be realized — and fled The omens of a frowning sky. Shine on, fair Orb of Light ! and smile Till Autumn months have passed away. And Labour hath forgot the toil He bore in Summer's sultry ray : And when the reapers end the day, Tired with the burning heat of noon. They'll come with spirits light and gay, And bless thee — lovely Harvest Moon ! SONG OF TWILIGHT. The sun is away, and the fragrant grove Is drinking the sweets of the gloaming dew, Come hasten and shine, thou star of Love, Thou prettiest gem of the cloudless blue ; MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 203 And wake your music, ye warblers gay ; The earth is blooming— the skies are calm, Awaken and sing your vesper lay. While the flowery valleys are breathing balm. See; see ! she comes, the Star of Even ! Hark, hark ! the music that fills the grove ! Now, mortals, come hither and taste of heaven. Come feast on beauty, and mirth, and love. They come, they come ! — each bright-eyed maid With cheek outvieing the dew-bathed rose ; And the love-sick youth, to the trysted shade. See, see, like a bounding hart he goes ! Now, weary Labour, away to sleep,— Ye look not well in the Twilight blue. Away — and your faith with Morpheus keep. The drowsy monarch awaits for you : He goes, he goes to his sound repose, (Sweet be his dreams in the midnight spell !) And nothing is heard in the evening's close. But the whisper of love, and the warbler's swell. But why does Strephon so lonely come ? — He waits for Iris you need not doubt me ; Sai MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. O Iris ! come hither with him to roam. For nothing can gladden his heart without thee. See, yonder she comes, dear youth ! — away. And get thee hold of her milk-white hand. Or the fairies will think her a sister fay. And bear her afar to the elfin land ! And where have ye wandered, Apollo's sons ? Come hither ! — the Muses on flower and tree. Are wasting their sighs, like lonely nuns. With never a man their charms to see ; Come hasten, no longer they'll wait for you— See how they are yielding to Music's call I The merle weds one, and the nightingale two ; Oh ! come, or the birds will espouse them all ! They meet — the Muse and the laurelled strain. To picture each charm, and number each sigh. And scatter fresh roses o'er grove and plain. And tinsel each cloud in the tranquil sky. And all is happiness, joy, and peace. My summer-clad valleys and bowers among. And innocent pleasure, and harmless bless. And beauty, and love, and mirth, and song ! MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 205 Now tavry, old Time ! — from the eve of bliss Oh, why should ye haste to an unknown morrow ? Come rest thee a while ; — if the joui-ney press. Then double thy speed in an hour of sorrow : Alas, alas ! he slacks not his pace. But ever goes merrily, merrily on. Till darkness lowers, and the birds in their bowers Are hushing their melodies one by one. And see ! the shadows still darker lower, And hark ! the curfew knell is rung ; The monks have chaunted eve-service o'er, And the nuns their vesper anthems sung ! 'Tis Night, 'tis Night ! — I fly from his sight. As a virtuous maiden flies from Guile ; His rosy bowers, and his dew-bathed flowers, I scorn them all till the Morning smile. So hasten, ye lovers, in h(Mneward flight. Away, if you wish to be kind and true ; For Beauty oft strays in the shades of night. And drowns young Love in the midnight dew. Still fly, like me, from the Darkness dim — And what when your slumber is sound and long ? 206 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. Oh, then you shall wake to a Morning hymn. That doubles the bliss of the Evening song ! THE STORM. 'Tis morning— and slowly emerging from rest. The twilight of day with the darkness is blending. And far in the unclouded sky of the east. The Monarch of Light is sublimely ascending ; What though the bleak Tyrant of Winter again Hath spread desolation o'er hill and o'er plain. And bound in his fetters the streamlets below. And mantled the hills in a garment of snow. Yet the sky is serene — and the lake, and the rill. In the damask of winter are beautiful still ; And the graces of Nature, below and above. As if join'd in the union of friendship and love. Seem wooing, caressing, and breathing a sigh. The sky to the earth, and the earth to the sky. Each happy to furnish a scene of delight, — While the Sun, like a god, in his glory and might. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 207 Through an empire of boundless immensity drivenj In majesty scales the blue concave of heaven. And unveiling to all his celestial grandeur. Encircles the earth with the glow of his splendour ! 'Tis mid-day — but see ! all the glory is gone. That late so bewitchingly sparkled and shone ! The transient glimpse of effulgence is past, The clouds are condensed, and the sky is o'ercast. And envious Winter, that seem'd for a while To cherish repose, and indulge in a smile, Afx'aid of mild Summer xisurping his reign. Hath braced on his terrible armour again ! Now suddenly starting in fitful commotion. The mountains of vapour arise from the ocean. And swift with the tempest ascending on high. In the shade of their gloominess, darken the sky^ Then gathering closely, romantic'ly form The abode of destruction — the place of the Storm ? Hark ! how the wild tempest is sallying forth. Like a merciless flood, o'er the desolate earth. The cottage unroofing, the huge oaks up-tearing. And high o'er the vast desolation careering, o2 208 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. It shakes the proud pillars Why linger — linger — on the verge of time > Why wildly gaze, and gaze, on all around. As if some ransom meet might yet be found ? Thy doom Is fixed — thou must not tarry long ; The Law is just, and Judgment's hand Is strong ! Then drop the signal — get thee hence away. Though Mercy spare, yet Justice liolds tlie sway ; And one short hour, whate'er thy fate may be. Will make eternity no les3 to thee. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 217 *Tis done ! — the signal of his fate is given. His body sinks, his soul from earth is driven ; Weak nature shrinks with strange convulsive start. When the cold blood is curdling at his heart ! One silent gasp — one little struggle more. And all the dread catastrophe is o'er ! THE ORPHAN. My mother's in her narrow bed. My sire sleeps by her side. My friends — relations — all are fled. Behind — before — around — is spread "Misfortune's angry tide ! Ere yet ray breast was taught to know Affliction's sullen gloom. The languid grief, or pining woe. That fast in close succession flow. To sweep us to the tomb ; p 218 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. And ere the cares of life combined My little heart to move. Then pitying Charity was kind. And round my ' baby brow' she twined A wreath of sacred love. But now I'm cast upon the world. An Orphan, here below ; On me stern Misery's storms are hurl'd. And Sorrow's banners are unfurl'd Above the child of woe ! Bright Fashion's pomp, and Beauty's beam. On every side I see. Pass by me, like a fairy dream. And sailing down sweet Pleasure's stream. All — all seem blest but me. But weep not for me, ye who've felt Affection's kindling glow. Ye who to kind compassion melt. For those who have forever knelt Before the shrine of Woe. MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 219 For though my parents both have gone With sister souls to blend. And on the earth I'm left alone, Companionless — there still is One, My Father, and my Friend. And what is life ? — 'tis but a day, A momentary scene. From which I soon must pass away. And in my silent house of clay. Be as I ne'er had been ! And though to mark my naiTow bed No sculptured stone be given, I'll sleep as soundly with the dead As those with honours on their head. If I am blest in heaven. Then with Misfortune here beneath, A war I'll never wage ; For though I tread a barren heath. Soon, soon the welcome hand of Death Shall end my pilgrimage. 220 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. THE WITHERED TREE. ■ There's nothing true but heaven." — Moore. Ah ! Withered Tree, I've lately seen. Thy stately form in beauty growing. When through thy leaves and branches green The summer w inds were gently blowing ; Oh, oft I've made thy boughs a bower To shield me from the sun or shower, Wlien nature bloomed, all fair and bright. Like Fancy's visions of delight. And thou, majestic Tree ! didst stand The beauty of her fairy land. And oft, at twilight, have I stray 'd To muse beneath thy solemn shade. When earth, in Flora's richest dress. And evening's ti*anquil loveliness. And heaven's pure arch of azure blue. Were mild and lovely to the view ; I've heard the little birds above Pour forth their mellow lays of love, MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. 221 And mix the balmy breeze of even With songs of innocence and heaven ; While all ai*ound, in earth and sky. That pleased the ear^ or charmed the eye. Combined their beauties to impart A tranquil pleasure to my heart :— But ah ! the contrast see ! Stern winter's chilling blasts have blown. The songs are hush'd — the birds are gone. And now the tempest's dreary moan Wails through the Withered Tree ! Oh ! thus I've seen the Tree of Love, In Beauty's vale, once fair to view. While sweetly in the scented grove. The fragrant flowers of Friendship grew. The showers that wet its balmy bed. Were tears which mutual kindness shed ; Its zephyrs, the warm bosom's sighs ; Its sunbeams, light from Beauty's eyes ; And the bright sky that smiled above Was lighted with the gems of Love. Oh, I have sat beneath this tree, When life's young summer smiled on me. 222 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. And wreathed the roses round my head That grew beneath its pleasing shade. While time, unheeded, pass'd away As cheerful as the smiling day : — 'Twas then the voice of kindness stole Like melting music o'er my soul. And every object of delight Still grew more fair, and shone more bright. Till my fond heart believed that Tree Could never lose its charms to me. But ah ! when most its sweets inspired. When most beloved, and most admired, (Though mid-day saw it in its pride). Before the evening came — it died ! The flowers of Friendship all decay 'd. The showers forsook its balmy bed. And fragrant zephyrs ceased to move The green leaves of the Tree of Love, That left no shade for me ; Each beauty faded one by one. Till every blooming trace was gone. And Love, once fair to look upon. Is now a Withered Tree ! MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. Ah ! why should mortals thus caress A flower to-day, that fades to-morrow. And prize a sunny sky of bliss That only brings the storms of sorrow ? The brightest cloud that tints the sky With lovely hues of crimson dye. And glads the wanderers of the vale. Must vanish with the passing gale ; The sweetest flower that decks the lea In summer noonths, so fair to see. Though loved and fondled to the last. Must perish in the autumn "s blast. Oh ! thus each little flower of bliss. From which we look for happiness. Blooms fair a while in Fancy's ray. Then droops — and falls — and fades away : And bright-eyed Hope's enchanting smile. And Fancy's fay- wove charms of guile. Melt like the golden tints of even That streak the azure vault of heaven. And leave no trace behind to tell. That e'er they bound or broke the spell I But stern experience teaches lore — rU trust to Flattery's smiles no more ; 224 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS. For I have tasted Pleasure's cup. And drunk her nectar chalice up. But ah ! I found that even there The bitter dregs of Sorrow were. But should Deceit, with witching art. E'er try again to fix my heart On joys that cannot be — Or Friendship false my steps pursue. Or fickle Love her sweets renew, To make my heart believe them true, I'll mind the Withered Tree. FINIS. DUMFRIES : J. IWniAIlMID & CO. I'ltlNTEIt:}. L006 213 663 5 UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY AA 000 370 656 i