"For, though I ventured forth so bold,
So long, so far did roam,
Affection, like a wayward child,
Still wept and murmur'd, _home!_

"I persevered, yet still I strained
The pleader to my breast;
I hush'd her cries, but as I chid
More fondly still carest.

"And when I met with foreign dames
Of grace and beauty rare--
I fancied one dear village girl
Like them: but oh! how fair!

"My early playmate! oft I humm'd
The lays she lisping sung!
And sigh'd when looking on the arm,
Where she at parting hung.

"Then, joy! within my native vale
To find my Ellen free!
To fancy others pleas'd her not,
Because she thought on me!

"So closely round a glowing heart
Did never flowers entwine!
Oh! ne'er was mortal spirit lull'd
With visions sweet as mine!"