Page:Landon in Literary Gazette 1822.pdf/9



Planet of bright but wayward destinies, Thy votaries are thy victims; he who seeks The laurel must essay a weary path; Neglect will chill his best affections, or Cold mockery will greet them. There are given Rich gifts unto the bard; but, not content With silent rapture, he must sun his wealth, Show his hid treasures to the world, and then The canker will consume them, and the fame He fondly sought be bitterness of heart. 'Twas thus with the young Minstrel of this grove: He sought to grasp an iris, beautiful And of bright colours, but all formed of tears. His memory lingers in this glen, for here He caught the inspiration of the gale, Singing its evening hymn, and worshipped Like an idolater the morning star He pass'd in early youth; his heart was as A delicate flower, too soft to blossom long. He sleeps where yon pale willow leans, and weeps The morning dew above his quiet grave. L. E. L.