Selections from the American Poets/To a Young Mother
TO A YOUNG MOTHER.
Belinda! the young blossom that doth lieSo lightly on thy thy bosom, clasp it there:For on her brow an empress doth not wear,Nor in her jewell'd zone, a gem more fair,Or that doth deck her more becomingly.Forget not, then, that deep within thy flowerThe germes lie hid of lovelier, holier things:Filial affection, that spontaneous springsHigh truth and maiden purity; the powerThat comes of gentleness; ay, and more,Piety, nourish'd in the bosom's core:These, if so cherish'd, shall thy blossom bear,And with the dews of heavenly love impearl'd,It shall adorn thee in another world.