How blest the change; to breathe the scented air,
Steals for the moment every sense of care,
Its healing powers to all new life impart,
Expand the mind and elevate the heart.
But now arrived at the appointed place,--
A rural spot adorned with every grace,
Which Nature from her bounties could bestow,
To make the world a paradise below,--
Our party pause a moment to reflect;
Then towards a path their several steps direct,
Which leads the way to some sequestered seat,
Secured by foliage from the noonday heat;
Or to the various sports their tastes incline,
Where art and nature, toil and skill combine
To give to all a welcome warm and kind,
That every weary heart sweet rest may find.
Here a few friends in social cheer are met,
Discoursing topics which such scenes beget;
And there a crowd, intent on sports more gay,
In lively measure tread the hours away.
Some roam in groups through fields and meadows green,
And laden with the fragrant spoils are seen,
Bedecked with crowns from Flora's own fair hand,
A radiant company from Fairy-land.
Apart from this another group behold,
A burden sweet their little arms unfold--
Lilies, fit emblem, when by childhood twined,
Of purity and innocence combined.
But hark! what sound is pealing through the air?
A summons from their sports to join in prayer;