Page:Edwin and Emma (2).pdf/2

 EDWIN AND EMMA.

in the windings of a vale,

Fast by a sheltering wood,

The safe retreat of health and peace,

An humble cottage stood.

There beauteous Emma flourish'd fair,

Beneath a mother's eye;

Whose only wish on earth was now

To see her blest and die.

The softest blush that nature spreads,

Gave colour to her cheek;

Such orient colour smiles through heaven,

When May's sweet moreings break.

Nor let the pride of great ones scorn,

This charmer of the plains:

That sun who bids their diamond blaze,

To paint our lily deigns.

Long had she fill'd each youth with love,

Each maiden with despair;

And tho’ by all a wonder own’d,

Yet knew not she was fair.