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This bleak shed and bare rock, and that the vale Below is beautiful. I know the time When it looked very beautiful to me! Do you see that bare spot, where one old oak Stands black and leafless, as if scorched by fire While round it the ground seems as if a curse Were laid upon the soil? Once by that tree, Then covered with its leaves and acorn crop, A little cottage stood: 'twas very small, But had an air of health and peace. The roof Was every morning vocal with the song Of the rejoicing swallows, whose warm nest Was built in safety underneath the thatch; A honeysuckle on the sunny side Hung round the lattices its fragrant trumpets. Around was a small garden; fruit and herbs