Page:Scenes in my Native Land.pdf/272

268

But thou, blest Isle, when verdant seasons die, Hast many a charm, which change can ne'er impair, And all that meets the mirror of thine eye Seems softened like a dream. For thee, with care, The great, proud City, beaming smiles doth wear, And shroud in distance, every darkened trace, Which penury, or pain, or guilt doth bear, And, like a lover, show its fairest face, Lifting its mighty head in majesty and grace.

So I have throned thee in mine inmost heart, Fair Daughter of the Sea, around whose breast The sparkling waters meet, and never part, But tuneful sing thee to thy nightly rest; Or if, by wintry blast and storm opprest, Fierce at thy feet the surging billows roll, Thou, in serenity and glory drest, Dost still the madness of their mood control, And strong in beauty's power, disarm the wrathful soul.

The suburbs of the City of New York present an unusual variety of romantic scenery, easily accessible to its inhabitants; and that which Stateu Island exhibits is not among the least diversified or imposing. Indeed, it is a most fascinating and delightful spot, fanned by the purest breezes from the sea.

The fine residences of New Brighton give its shore the splendid appearance of a city, while from its cliffs,