265
SONNET.
HOU enviest the gift of poesy,—And 'tis a glorious power, to bear along
The hearts of thousands on the tide of song,
To rouse the bondman and enchain the free!
And rare as genius such as this may be,
Yet many a spirit of far gentler mould,
Thrills with that mystic inborn melody,
Which tuneful numbers can alone unfold.
But all earth's brightest gifts have their alloy;
And minds refined and sensitive, that glow
Responsive to the lightest touch of joy,
Yet feel the keener every breeze, and bow
Where firmer spirits shrink not. Well if years
Bring calmer, holier thoughts, to still both hopes and fears.
E.
April 20, 1850.
