Australian and Other Poems/Appeal to Poetry
APPEAL TO POETRY.
As one with am'rous breast, and prompt to glow
'Neath ev'ry wave of beauty's magic spell
Loves without hope of winning, yet loves well.
Such homage, Muse of Song! to thee I owe.
And as the wooer, tho' resigned the prize
Of love requiting, still the haughty fair
Urges with sigh, and burning word, and tear—
Courting her glance, seeking her radiant eyes,
Tempting all arts at love's behest revealed,
To win approval, or reward evoke—
A small white glove, a rose, a silky lock,
Or, richest gift! a kiss—thus do I yield
Thee warmest service. Muse! Hopeless to gain
Thy worthier bays, grant me some lesser wreaths t' obtain!