Page:Scenes in my Native Land.pdf/100

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THE POET BRAINARD.

cottage ornée. It is now the property of Rev. Mr. Hurlburt. The taste and elegance of the building, the fine water prospect which it commands, its beautiful trees and grassy slopes, render it a delightful residence.

Among the buildings that escaped the conflagration of the traitor Arnold, is the house of Judge Brainard, the father of G. G. C. Brainard, the gifted poet of New London. Long will his memory be cherished among the favorite melodists of his native land. He was born and passed the greater part of his life in this place, and to his associations with its pursuits, and the influence of its scenery on his mind, we may trace some of the most original imagery of his poems. Here in the arms of fraternal affection at the early age of thirty-two, he meekly resigned life, with all its tissue of joys and sorrows. His disposition was tinged with melancholy, the world had never seemed to him radiant with sunshine, but his last days were bright with immortal hopes. He died at peace with his Maker, in the faith of the gospel, and to use his own words, "forgiving all, and praying for the salvation of all."




I roamed where Thames, old Ocean's breast doth cheer,
Pouring from crystal urn the waters sheen,
What time dim twilight's silent step was near,
And gathering dews impearled the margin green;
Yet, though mild autumn with a smile serene