Page:Modern poets and poetry of Spain.djvu/333

Rh Around the proud saloon reflect Each face the mirrors there; With diamonds, pearls, and gold bedeck'd, Light dance the gentle fair; And with their witching grace and air, O'er thousand lovers holding sway, Their vows and plaudits bear away. Lovely is that! I one day too, When childhood scarce above, Through balls and banquets would pursue The object of my love. And from the young beloved I strove, As magic treasure, to obtain A passing look, or smile to gain. But now by cares subdued, and bound By languor and disease, Than gilded halls, these plains around Me more the night hours please: To the gay dance preferring these, The calm asylum they supply, To meditate beneath this sky. O! ever shine on me the stars, In a clear heaven as now! And as my Maker that avers, There let me turn my brow.