The Linnet (1819, Falkirk)/Willy and Nelly
For other versions of this work, see On a Bank of Flowers.
WILLY & NELLY.
On a bank of flowers one summer's day,for summer's lightly dress'd,The youthful blooming Nelly lay,with love aud sleep oppress'd;
When Willy, wand'ring thro' the wood,who for her favour oft had su'd,He gaz'd, he wish'd, he fear'd, he blush'd,and trembled when he stood.
Her closed eyes, like weapons sheath'd,were seal'd in soft repose,Her lips still as the fragrance breath'd,it richer dy'd the rose:The springing lillies sweetly press'd,wild wanton kiss'd her rival breast;He gaz'd, he wish'd, he fear'd, he blush'd,His bosom ill at rest.
Her robe light waving in the breeze,her tender limbs embrace;Her lovely form, her native ease,all harmony and grace!Tumultuous tides his pulses roll,a flatt'ring ardent kiss he stole:He gaz'd, he wish'd, he fear'd, he blush'd,and sigh'd his very soul!
As flies the partridge from the brake,on fear-inspired wings,So Nelly startling half-awake,away affrighted springs:But Willy follow'd as he should,he overtook her in the wood;He vow'd, he pray'd, he found the maidforgiving all and good.