Page:Landon in Literary Gazette 1822.pdf/49



Of the heart's intercourse, our own fireside! I do remember in my early youth I parted from its circle; how I pined With happy recollections, they to me Were sickness and deep sorrow; how I thought Of the strange tale, the laugh, the gentle smile Breathing of love, that wiled the night away. The hour of absence past, I was again With those who loved me. What a beauty dwelt In each accustomed face! what music hung On each familiar voice! We circled in Our meeting ring of happiness. If e'er This life has bliss, I knew and felt it then!— But there was one remembered not, Yet 'twas a creature beautiful as Hope, With eyes blue as the harebell when the dew Sparkles upon its azure leaves; a cheek Fresh as a mountain-rose, but delicate As rainbow colours, and as changeful too. "The orphan, have you then forgot "Your laughing playmate?" would have clasp'd The maiden to his heart, but she shrank back: A crimson blush and tearful lids belied Her light tone, as she bade him not forget So soon his former friends. But the next morn Were other tears than those sweet ones that come Of the full heart's o'erflowings. He was given, The loved, the wanderer, to their prayers at last; But he was now so changed, there was no trace Left of his former self; the glow of health, Of youth, was gone, and in his sallow cheek And faded eye decay sat visible;—