Memoirs of Anne C. L. Botta/On receiving a picture of an Italian Countess

Oh lovely semblance of a lovelier face! Upon thy classic contour as I gaze, My eager thought flies through dividing space; And to the living picture tribute pays.

I see that brow with thought and goodness crowned, I see those eyes with deep affection shine; I hear the language from those sweet lips sound, By poets made immortal and divine.

I would that I might follow my free thought, And see this gentle stranger face to face; For such fair spirits I have ever sought, And such would ever hold in my embrace.