IF any white-winged Power above My joys and griefs survey, The day when thou wert born, my love -- He surely blessed that day. I laughed (till taught by thee) when told Of Beauty's magic powers, That ripened life's dull ore to gold, And changed its weeds to flowers. My mind had lovely shapes portrayed; But thought I earth had one Could make even Fancy's visions fade Like stars before the sun? I gazed, and felt upon my lips The unfinished accents hang: One moment's bliss, one burning kiss To rapture changed each pang. And though as swift as lightning's flash Those tranced moments flew, Not all the waves of time shall wash Their memory from my view. But duly shall my raptured song, And gladly shall my eyes Still bless this day's return, as long As thou shalt see it rise. |