I. AMIDST the Nymphs (the glory of the flood) Thus once the beauteous Aegle stood, So sweet a tincture ere the Sun appears, The bashful ruddy morning wears: Thus through a crystal wave the coral glows, And such a blush sits on the virgin rose. II. Ye envied waters that with safety may Around her snowy bosom play, Cherish with gentle heat that noble breast Which so much innocence has blest, Such innocence, as hitherto ne'er knew What mischief Venus or her son could do. Then from this hallow'd place Let the profane and wanton eye withdraw, For Virtue clad in scarlet strikes an awe From the tribunal of a lovely face. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...WASTED HOURS by WILLIAM HENRY DAVIES SPOILS OF THE DEAD by ROBERT FROST THE HERONS OF ELMWOOD by HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW TO JANE: KEEN STARS by PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY ON MRS PRIESTLEY'S LEAVING WARRINGTON by ANNA LETITIA BARBAULD TO HELEN KELLER by CRAVEN LANGSTROTH BETTS |