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 When thy brave comrades fell around, What pow'r's benignant care, Secur'd thee from the fatal wound, And Mary from despair ?

Oft in the troubling dream of night "I saw the rushing spear, Nor did the morn’s awak’ning light Dispel the ling’ring fear.”

"Thy tender fears (the youth replied} "Ah ! give them to the air ! "To happiness we’re now allied, “ And pleasure be our care.

"Let us pursue the joy begun, "Nor lose by dull delay : "Say, Mary, shall to morrow’s sun Illume our nuptial day !”

With look declin’d she blush’d consent--- Reserve that takes alarm, And love and joy their influence lent To rise meek beauty’s charm.

The guests, to hail the wedded pair. Beneath their roof repair’d, With them the little feast to share Their scanty purse prepar’d.

Tho' no delicious wines were pour’d. Mirth took his destin’d place, The hand-maid Neatness spread the board And sage Content said grace.